Doctors Without Borders has significantly improved healthcare access in Couffo, Benin, where previously, few women accessed health centers. Their initiatives have increased awareness about prenatal care and family planning, training local women as health ambassadors to change perceptions around contraception. As a result, maternal and infant health has improved, and misconceptions regarding family planning are being addressed, contributing to a decrease in maternal mortality rates.
In southern Couffo, Benin, prior to the involvement of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), a minimal number of women engaged with health centers. This lack of access led to inadequate medical check-ups during pregnancy, resulting in a prevalence of home births, and notably high maternal and infant mortality rates. Many of these deaths could potentially have been avoided with appropriate medical attention and monitoring.
Since initiating efforts in 2022, MSF and the Ministry of Health have collaborated to enhance healthcare access for the inhabitants of Couffo. Outreach activities led by trained women have started connecting local communities with health centers, thereby increasing monitoring and care for women during their pregnancies. This initiative has directly improved women’s health practices and outcomes in the region.
Léonie, a mother of five, exemplifies the positive changes facilitated through this program. Previously experiencing severe pregnancy complications, she learned about the necessity of medical consultations. After receiving this counsel and subsequently visiting a health center, she received appropriate treatment that proved life-saving during her last delivery, ensuring the health of both her and her infant son, Précieux Magloire.
Hippolite, who supervises health promotion in the KTL health zone, emphasizes the role of women leaders in promoting community health education. By training these women as ambassadors, they can dispel ignorance surrounding health care and encourage others to seek medical assistance. He asserts, “If women don’t know why they need to go to the health center, they won’t go.” Such initiatives contribute to reducing maternal mortality and improving community health awareness.
To foster sustainable community change, MSF is dedicated to educating couples about family planning, encouraging informed decisions regarding childbearing. Hippolite remarks on the evolving perception of contraception, acknowledging that yet, many still harbor misconceptions surrounding its use, but attitudes are gradually shifting as awareness increases.
Lucienne, one of the trained community leaders, has witnessed transformative effects in her village, particularly among male residents. As part of community health systems, a referral transport system has been established to facilitate access to healthcare. Lucienne shares her changed perspective on contraception, stating, “Before I became involved, I also thought that contraception made people sick and sterile.” Her experiences underline the increasing acceptance of family planning practices.
Felix, a father who lost two of his children, now recognizes the significance of spacing births through effective contraception for his family’s well-being. He notes a shift in his understanding of fertility, having previously relied on the withdrawal method. He confidently affirms his commitment to sharing this knowledge with future generations.
MSF has actively operated in Couffo since 2022, contributing not only to health promotion but also to the reinforcement of six health centers through staff training and resourcing. Their comprehensive support includes prenatal and postnatal consultations, safe delivery practices, and family planning counseling. Furthermore, MSF plays an integral role in the management of severe cases in the local hospital and ensures adequate blood supply services when necessary.
In conclusion, the efforts of Doctors Without Borders in Couffo, Benin, have led to significant improvements in women’s healthcare access and family planning education. Through the training of local community leaders and outreach initiatives, there is a discernible shift in societal views regarding contraception and maternal care. These changes not only enhance individual health outcomes but also contribute to broader community health and wellbeing. It is evident that continued education and access to healthcare are essential in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in this region.
Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.org
