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Breastfeeding is often described as the most natural way to feed a baby, providing essential nutrients and antibodies that protect infants from illness. Beyond its physical health benefits, breastfeeding is an emotional process that can significantly influence a mother’s mental well-being. However, while breastfeeding can be a source of comfort and connection, it can also present emotional challenges that affect a mother’s psychological health.

The Emotional Connection

Breastfeeding stimulates the release of hormones like oxytocin and prolactin, which promote relaxation, bonding, and a sense of fulfillment. Many mothers describe feeding time as a period of closeness that strengthens their connection with their babies. This hormonal and emotional bond can contribute to reduced stress levels and enhanced maternal confidence.

Challenges and Emotional Strain

Not every breastfeeding journey is smooth. Difficulties such as poor latching, low milk supply, engorgement, or mastitis can cause physical discomfort and emotional distress. Some mothers may feel guilt, shame, or inadequacy if they cannot breastfeed as planned. These feelings can be amplified by societal expectations, cultural pressures, and conflicting advice from healthcare providers or family members.

For mothers already at risk of postpartum depression or anxiety, breastfeeding difficulties can intensify symptoms. Lack of sleep, hormonal changes, and the overwhelming demands of caring for a newborn can create a perfect storm for mental health struggles.

Postpartum Depression and Breastfeeding

The relationship between breastfeeding and postpartum depression is complex. For some women, successful breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of depression due to increased oxytocin and emotional satisfaction. For others, persistent breastfeeding challenges can become a source of stress, increasing feelings of hopelessness and isolation. Recognizing these different experiences is essential to providing the right kind of support.

The Role of Support Systems

Maternal mental health during breastfeeding is best protected when mothers have strong support networks. Partners can share responsibilities such as burping, diaper changes, and household tasks, allowing the mother to rest. Family and friends can offer encouragement rather than criticism, while healthcare providers can provide evidence-based guidance tailored to the mother’s unique needs.

Peer support groups  both in-person and online also give mothers a safe space to share experiences, learn practical tips, and feel understood.

Empowering Informed Choices

One of the most important steps in protecting maternal mental health is removing the pressure to breastfeed at all costs. While exclusive breastfeeding is highly recommended for the first six months, mothers who cannot or choose not to breastfeed should be supported without judgment. The ultimate goal is a healthy, thriving mother and baby and that can be achieved through different feeding approaches.

Breastfeeding is a journey that intertwines physical nourishment with emotional well-being. By acknowledging the mental health dimension of breastfeeding, society can move away from guilt-driven narratives and toward a culture of understanding and support. When a mother’s mental health is prioritized, she is better equipped to care for herself and her child fostering a healthier start to life for both.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) to tackle issues of basic health concerns. Join us every Monday for more health-related articles on all our social media platforms.

References

1. Weaning and Maternal Mental Health
2. 5 common breastfeeding problems | UNICEF Parenting

“You can’t nourish from an empty cup, and you definitely can’t breastfeed through trauma.”
The right to nourishment is a fundamental human right. Yet, for millions of infants in Nigeria and around the world, that right is compromised from birth, not by poverty alone, but by violence inflicted on the very individuals tasked with nurturing them. As the world marks World Breastfeeding Week, it is imperative to confront a rarely addressed but devastating intersection: the relationship between gender-based violence (GBV) and infant health, particularly breastfeeding outcomes.

Breastfeeding is globally recognized as a cornerstone of infant survival and development. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), optimal breastfeeding could prevent over 823,000 child deaths annually across the globe. However, in households where women face psychological, physical, or sexual violence, the act of breastfeeding becomes compromised, interrupted, or entirely abandoned, placing infants at heightened risk of disease, malnutrition, and death.

Understanding Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria
In Nigeria, gender-based violence is a pervasive issue. According to the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), 30% of Nigerian women aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence since age 15, and 9% experienced sexual violence. The figures are even higher in certain rural communities and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, where systemic poverty, displacement, and insecurity magnify the risks.

This violence is not limited to isolated acts of cruelty. It is embedded in socio-cultural systems that normalize women’s suffering and silence, even during vulnerable periods such as pregnancy and postpartum. These environments profoundly impact maternal mental health and consequently, infant care practices.
How Gender-Based Violence Impacts Breastfeeding
Numerous peer-reviewed studies affirm that women who experience GBV, especially during or immediately after pregnancy, are significantly less likely to initiate or continue breastfeeding.
1. Physiological Disruption of Lactation
The stress caused by violence increases cortisol levels, which can inhibit the production of oxytocin, a hormone essential for milk let-down. In essence, a mother’s body under chronic threat cannot perform its nurturing functions efficiently.
2. Mental Health Consequences
Women exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV) are at increased risk of postpartum depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions are linked to early cessation of exclusive breastfeeding.
3. Limited Access to Healthcare
GBV survivors are often restricted in their mobility and decision-making, making them less likely to access maternal health services. This further reduces opportunities for lactation counseling or timely postnatal care, which are vital for breastfeeding success.
4. Physical Trauma
Injuries to the breasts or upper body from physical abuse can make breastfeeding painful or physically impossible. Moreover, repeated violence erodes a mother’s sense of bodily autonomy, which may deter her from engaging in breastfeeding altogether.
Impact on Infant Health
When mothers are unable to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months, a practice strongly endorsed by WHO and UNICEF, the consequences for infants are profound:
• Increased risk of diarrhea, respiratory infections, and undernutrition.
• Higher likelihood of stunted growth and developmental delays.
• Elevated infant mortality, particularly in settings with limited access to safe alternatives.

In Nigeria, where 44% of children under five are stunted, the added burden of disrupted breastfeeding due to GBV further deepens a national child health crisis.
Sociocultural and Structural Drivers

In many Nigerian communities, cultural norms that promote male dominance and female submissiveness inhibit women’s ability to seek help or resist abuse. Violence is often dismissed as “discipline” or a private family affair. These norms are reinforced by:
• Patriarchal interpretations of religion
• Bride price systems that commodify women
• The stigmatization of divorced or single mothers
• Poor legal enforcement of existing protective laws, such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act) of 2015, which remains unadopted in several Nigerian states.
As a result, maternal silence becomes survival, even when that silence compromises infant health.
Recommendations: Multisectoral Action is Imperative
Addressing the impact of GBV on breastfeeding and infant health requires coordinated efforts across health, legal, and community systems. The following actions are recommended:

1. Integrate GBV Screening into Maternal and Child Health Services
Health workers at antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care points must be trained to screen for and respond to GBV sensitively and confidentially.
2. Strengthen Legal Protection and Enforcement
Full domestication and enforcement of the VAPP Act in all 36 states is non-negotiable. Legal systems must prioritize survivor protection, not the preservation of abusive family structures.
3. Community Education and Norms Change
Religious and traditional leaders must be engaged as advocates for safe motherhood. Community dialogues can play a key role in dismantling harmful gender norms.
4. Expand Access to Psychosocial Support
Psychological care, trauma counseling, and peer-support networks for survivors should be embedded within maternal health programs.
5. Data Collection and Research
More localized data is needed to map the intersection of GBV and breastfeeding outcomes in Nigeria. Without robust data, interventions risk being misaligned or underfunded.

Conclusion
Breastfeeding is not only a health practice; it is an act of nurturing, safety, and trust. When a mother is forced to feed through fear, we undermine not just her health but the health of the next generation. Ending GBV is not a side issue in public health; it is central to child survival, gender equity, and national development.
This week, as we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week, we must reaffirm that the ability of Nigerian women to breastfeed in safety and dignity is a national imperative. Silence and cultural complicity can no longer be tolerated. The future of our children, indeed, of our nation, depends on it.
Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.
#WorldBreastfeedingWeek #EndGBV #InfantHealth #MaternalHealth #BreastfeedingMatters #SafeMotherhood #SupportSurvivors #NutritionJustice #HealthEquity #VAPPAct #WomensRights
References
• World Health Organization (2017). Protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding in facilities providing maternity and newborn services. https://www.who.int
• National Population Commission (NPC) [Nigeria] and ICF. (2019). Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey 2018. Abuja, Nigeria, and Rockville, Maryland, USA.
• UNICEF (2019). Programming Guidance: Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies. https://www.unicef.org
• Kendall-Tackett, K. A. (2007). Violence against women and the perinatal period: The impact of lifetime violence and abuse on pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 8(3), 344–353.
• Silverman, J.G., Decker, M.R., Reed, E., & Raj, A. (2006). Intimate partner violence around the time of pregnancy: Association with breastfeeding behavior. Journal of Women’s Health, 15(8), 934–940.
• Kumar, M., Huang, K., Othman, S., Rahman, M., & Lee, S. (2017). Effect of intimate partner violence on breastfeeding behavior: A systematic review. BMJ Open, 7:e014439.
• UNHCR (2021). Nigeria Factsheet – Gender-Based Violence. https://www.unhcr.org/ng
• World Health Organization (2021). Infant and Young Child Feeding. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infant-and-young-child-feeding

At CFHI, we recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health. As part of our commitment to holistic well-being, this week’s Monday Health Burst shines a light on an often-neglected issue – men’s mental health. For generations, society has woven a narrative around masculinity that leaves little room for vulnerability. Men are expected to be strong, stoic, and impervious to emotional struggle. Yet behind many quiet smiles or firm handshakes lies a hidden truth: men suffer from mental health challenges too and often in silence.

The Hidden Crisis

The stigma attached to mental health, coupled with societal expectations of masculinity, pushes many men to bottle up their emotions, fearing they will be seen as weak or “less manly.”

But silence can be deadly. Unaddressed mental health issues can manifest in substance abuse, violence, risky behavior, chronic stress, and even premature death.

Several myths fuel this crisis:

• Real men don’t cry. Tears are a human response to emotion, not a sign of weakness.
• Talking about problems won’t change anything. In truth, talking is often the first step toward healing.
• Mental health issues are a sign of failure. Mental illness is not a character flaw; it’s a health condition deserving care like any physical illness.

These misconceptions keep men locked in isolation, denying them the support and resources that could save lives.

Breaking the silence around men’s mental health is essential. Here’s how we can help:

• Normalize Conversations: Speak openly about mental health in families, workplaces, and communities. The more we talk, the less shame there is.
• Challenge Stereotypes: Redefine masculinity to include emotional expression, empathy, and vulnerability.
• Provide Accessible Resources: Ensure men have safe, judgment-free spaces to seek help from therapy and support groups to online resources.
• Check on Your Loved Ones: A simple, “How are you really doing?” can open doors to crucial conversations.
• Promote Self-Care: Encourage men to prioritize activities that support mental well-being, from exercise to meditation to creative outlets.

To all men reading this: your feelings are valid. Seeking help is not weakness; it’s courage. You deserve support, understanding, and the chance to thrive mentally and emotionally.

Raising teenagers isn’t always easy, one moment they’re craving attention, the next they want their space. But here’s the truth: your presence and support as a parent or caregiver make all the difference.

Adolescence is a time of change, physically, emotionally, and socially. Young people are trying to figure out who they are, what they believe, and where they belong. In the midst of this, positive parenting helps guide them toward healthier choices and stronger self-esteem.

So, what does positive parenting look like?

💬 It’s talking openly even when the topic feels uncomfortable. Conversations about puberty, peer pressure, sex, and mental health are important, and teens want honest, non-judgmental input.

👂 It’s listening really listening without immediately reacting or correcting. Sometimes, teens just want to feel heard.

🚦 It’s setting fair boundaries and sticking to them. Rules and expectations give structure, and consistency helps teens feel safe.

💡 It’s modeling what you want to see. Teens may not always say it, but they watch how you handle stress, relationships, and your own health.

And the results? They’re real.

Research shows that teens who feel connected to their parents are 55% less likely to attempt suicide, 40% less likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, and 30% less likely to use drugs or alcohol (CDC, Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2021).

Positive parenting doesn’t mean being perfect. It means showing up with patience, empathy, and a willingness to grow together.

At CFHI, we believe that strong families create a solid foundation for healthy adolescents. That’s why we continue to support parents and young people through community programs, education, and health advocacy.

Let’s raise a generation that is not only healthy, but heard, supported, and empowered.

Being there consistently is the most powerful thing a parent can do.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) to tackle issues of basic health concerns. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more health-focused articles.

As we mark Day 9 in the countdown to World Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, we spotlight a crucial component of menstrual health: safe and hygienic menstrual practices. Menstruation is a natural bodily function, yet millions of girls and women around the world still face challenges in managing their periods safely and with dignity.

A lack of access to sanitary products, clean water, private toilets, and accurate information often leads to poor menstrual hygiene, which can result in infections, missed school or workdays, and emotional distress.

Key Elements of Safe and Hygienic Menstrual Practices

🩸 1. Use of Clean Menstrual Products

Sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and reusable cloth pads (made with hygienic materials) are all viable options—if they are clean and used correctly. These products should be changed every 3-5 hours to prevent infections and discomfort depending on one’s flow.

💧 2. Proper Personal Hygiene

During menstruation, maintaining hygiene is vital:

• Wash hands before and after changing menstrual products.
• Clean the genital area with water at least twice daily.
• Avoid using perfumed soaps or harsh chemicals on sensitive areas.

♻️ 3. Safe Disposal of Menstrual Products – Day 9 Focus

Today’s countdown spotlight emphasizes the importance of safe disposal. Menstrual waste, if improperly managed, can pose health risks and environmental hazards.

Here’s how to practice safe disposal:

If you’re using disposable products like pads or tampons:

• Wrap them in paper and discard them in a covered bin.
• Use incinerators or proper waste disposal methods when available.
• Never flush them down the toilet to avoid environmental damage.

If you’re using reusable products like cloth pads or menstrual cups:

• Wash them thoroughly with soap and clean water after each use.
• Dry them completely in sunlight or in a clean, airy space before storing.
• Store in a clean, dry container or pouch until next use.
  Proper care prevents infections and extends the lifespan of the product.

By promoting proper disposal, we not only reduce health risks but also combat the shame often associated with menstruation. It’s a step toward dignity and sustainability.

🚻 4. Access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Facilities

Girls and women need access to clean water and private, safe toilets to manage their periods effectively. This is especially important in schools, workplaces, and public settings.

📚 5. Education and Awareness

Accurate menstrual education should begin early. It helps girls understand their bodies and breaks myths. Boys should also be included in this conversation to foster empathy and reduce stigma.

As we count down to World Menstrual Hygiene Day, let’s remember: a period should never be a barrier to education, dignity, or opportunity. Practicing and promoting safe and hygienic menstrual practices is not only a health issue, it is a human rights issue.

Together, through daily awareness, open dialogue, and inclusive policies, we can build a world where menstruation is safe, stigma-free, and supported.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) to tackle issues of basic health concerns. Join us every Monday for more health-related articles on all our social media platforms.

#MHDay2025 #Day9 #MenstrualHygiene #SafeDisposal #PeriodDignity #WorldMenstrualHygieneDay #MenstruationMatters

Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) is a fundamental aspect of overall health and well-being, particularly during adolescence, a phase marked by significant physical, emotional, and social development. As young people navigate puberty, relationships, and identity, they require accurate information and strong support systems. One of the most effective but often neglected forms of support is open, honest communication between parents and their children.

Research consistently shows that adolescents who engage in meaningful SRH conversations with their parents are more likely to make informed decisions, delay the onset of sexual activity, and adopt safe sexual practices. They are also more likely to seek health services when needed and maintain healthier relationships.

Unfortunately, many parents shy away from such discussions due to cultural taboos, personal discomfort, or a lack of knowledge. In many communities, talking about sex is viewed as inappropriate or even harmful, with some parents fearing that such conversations may encourage early sexual activity. However, evidence suggests the opposite: timely and age-appropriate communication helps protect young people from misinformation, peer pressure, and risky behavior.

Poor communication can have far-reaching health consequences. Adolescents may be left unaware of how to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, or how to manage menstruation and reproductive health safely. This can lead to unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and poor mental health outcomes, issues that have both personal and public health implications.

To overcome these challenges, parents and caregivers can take simple but effective steps. Starting conversations early, listening actively, staying informed, and creating a judgment-free space are key strategies. Health workers and educators also have a role to play in equipping parents with the tools and confidence to talk about SRH openly.

Ultimately, strengthening parent–child communication on SRH is more than a family matter—it is a public health necessity. When families engage in open dialogue, they empower the next generation to make healthy, informed, and responsible decisions. It’s time to break the silence, build trust, and promote a culture of health and respect within our homes and communities.

Monday Health Tip:
Talking to your child about reproductive health doesn’t encourage early sex, it empowers them to make safe, informed decisions.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) to tackle issues of basic health concerns. Join us every Monday for more health-related articles on all our social media platforms.

For generations, menstruation has been shrouded in silence, wrapped in euphemisms, and treated as a taboo. But the tide is turning. Today, we stand united to break the cycle of shame and empower every menstruator to embrace their natural biology without fear or embarrassment.

In many communities, menstruation is still considered a topic unfit for open discussion. This culture of silence fosters misinformation, leading to harmful myths and misconceptions. Girls are often unprepared for menarche, leading to confusion and fear. Without proper education, many resort to unsafe practices, jeopardizing their health and well-being.

A UNICEF report highlights that only 39% of schools globally offer education on menstruation, leaving a significant gap in knowledge and understanding.

The Real Cost of Stigma

Menstrual stigma extends beyond impacting personal confidence; it has tangible consequences. Girls miss school during their periods due to lack of access to sanitary products or fear of ridicule. This absenteeism contributes to higher dropout rates, limiting future opportunities.

Moreover, the economic burden of purchasing menstrual products, often referred to as the “pink tax,” disproportionately affects low-income families. In some underserved communities, women resort to using unsafe materials, increasing the risk of infections.

Ending the Silence: Breaking the Cycle

Organizations worldwide are stepping up to address menstrual health challenges. Initiatives like Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed on May 28, aim to raise awareness and advocate for policy changes.

The Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) has been at the forefront of promoting menstrual health. CFHI has provided SafePads™ to over 2,000 vulnerable women and girls in underserved communities. They have also partnered with various organizations to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day by campaigning and raising awareness against period poverty, providing education on menstrual hygiene, and distributing free SafePads™.

Education is the cornerstone of change. Comprehensive menstrual health education should be integrated into school curricula, ensuring that both girls and boys understand the biological processes and the importance of hygiene. By normalizing conversations around menstruation, we can dismantle the myths and foster a culture of acceptance.

Community engagement is equally vital. Parents, religious leaders, and community elders play a pivotal role in shaping perceptions. By involving them in awareness campaigns, we can challenge long-standing taboos and promote supportive environments.

Change begins with each of us. By speaking openly about menstruation, supporting those in need, and challenging discriminatory practices, we contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society.

Let’s amplify voices, not stigma. Together, we can create a world where menstruation is recognized not as a source of shame, but as a natural and empowering aspect of life.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #MenstrualHygieneDay #EndPeriodStigma #EndPeriodPoverty #PeriodFriendlyWorld #MenstruationMatters

 

References:

• Menstrual Hygiene Day. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.menstrualhygieneday.org/
• UNICEF Report on Menstrual Education in Schools. (n.d.).
• Centre for Family Health Initiative. (n.d.). Menstrual Hygiene. Retrieved from https://www.cfhinitiative.org/tag/menstrualhygiene/(cfhinitiative.org)

In many parts of the world, a girl’s chance of survival and health is determined not by her strength or potential, but by her gender. This stark reality is especially evident in the realm of immunization. Despite vaccines being one of the most effective tools in preventing childhood diseases, girls in underserved communities often face significant barriers to accessing them.

The Gender Gap in Immunization

Gender inequality profoundly impacts immunization rates. Studies have shown that in countries with high gender inequality, children are more likely to miss essential vaccinations. Specifically, higher gender inequality correlates with a greater proportion of children who have not received any doses of the DTP vaccine, a critical immunization for preventing diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. (Why does gender matter for immunization? – PMC – PubMed Central, The Association between Childhood Immunization and Gender …)

In Nigeria, cultural norms and limited decision-making power among women contribute to lower immunization rates for their children. Women often lack the autonomy to make healthcare decisions, leading to missed vaccination opportunities for their daughters.

Empowering Women to Protect Their Children

Empowering women is key to improving immunization coverage. When women have greater autonomy and decision-making capabilities, they are more likely to ensure their children receive necessary vaccinations.

Initiatives that focus on gender equity, such as involving women in healthcare delivery and decision-making processes, have shown success. For example, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) partnered with the Primary Healthcare Centre in Angwan Guragu, Karonmajiji to conduct a comprehensive program that included awareness sessions, immunization, and vaccination services aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of this population comprehensively, with a focus on prevention, education, and empowerment.

The Role of Community and Policy

Addressing gender disparities in immunization requires a multifaceted approach. Community engagement, education, and policy changes are essential. In Nigeria, efforts are being made to integrate gender considerations into immunization strategies. By recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by women and girls, these strategies aim to improve immunization coverage and health outcomes.

Conclusion

Every girl deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy and protected from preventable diseases. By addressing gender inequalities and empowering women, we can ensure that all children, regardless of gender, have equal access to life-saving vaccines.

 

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

References

1. Current Trends of Immunization in Nigeria: Prospect and Challenges (Current Trends of Immunization in Nigeria: Prospect and Challenges)
2. Nigeria Immunization Schedule – UNICEF (Nigeria Immunization Schedule – Unicef)
3. Centre for Family Health Initiative – Vaccines (vaccines – Centre for Family Health Initiative)
4. Breaking barriers, building bridges: the collaborative effort to reach every child in Nigeria – WHO (Breaking barriers, building bridges: the collaborative effort to reach …)

#SpeakWednesday #EqualAccess #ImmunizationForAll #GirlsHealth #GenderEquality #VaccinesWork #EndGenderBias #HealthForAll

Motherhood should be a time of joy and anticipation—not fear. Yet, for many women around the world, pregnancy and childbirth still come with life-threatening risks. Every day, about 800 women lose their lives to preventable complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. These aren’t just numbers—they are mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends.

Safe motherhood means ensuring that every woman has access to the care and support she needs before, during, and after pregnancy. It’s about more than survival; it’s about dignity, respect, and the right to health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 287,000 women die each year due to complications related to pregnancy and childbirth—most of which are preventable. The leading causes include severe bleeding, high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia and eclampsia), pregnancy-related infections, unsafe abortion, and underlying health conditions like HIV/AIDS and malaria, which can be aggravated by pregnancy (WHO, 2024).

The solution lies in timely access to quality healthcare, skilled birth attendants, emergency obstetric services, and continued care after childbirth. But reducing maternal deaths also requires addressing deeper systemic issues: poverty, gender inequality, lack of education, and underfunded health systems.

As part of its unwavering commitment to safe motherhood, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) has championed impactful community-based interventions aimed at improving maternal health outcomes. In 2022, CFHI led a maternal health outreach in Lugbe, Abuja, providing pregnant women with free antenatal check-ups, comprehensive health education on birth preparedness, and essential hygiene kits to promote safe and healthy deliveries.

By working directly with communities, healthcare providers, and local leaders, CFHI continues to support the national effort to reduce maternal mortality and ensure that no woman dies while giving life.

When women are empowered to make informed choices, when health systems are strengthened, and when communities rally around mothers, we save lives.

Reducing maternal mortality is not just a health goal—it’s a moral and social responsibility. A nation that safeguards its mothers invests in its future.

Let’s stand together for safe motherhood—because every woman deserves to survive childbirth and thrive in motherhood.