Arogya Sakhi helps Unnati navigate a high-risk pregnancy

On December 23, 2023, Arogya Sakhi Sangita Khirade enrolled Unnati Vinod Cover, Pregnant woman with high risk condition of anaemia. During her initial Antenatal Care (ANC) visit, Unnati was identified as being at risk due to her low height (141 cm) and mild anemia, with her hemoglobin (Hb) measuring at 10 gm/dl.

Sangita conducted regular visits to ensure Unnati went for her ANC checkups. She provided counseling on the importance of a nutritious diet, including iron-rich foods and consistent intake of iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets. As a result, Unnati did not experience any significant medical issues during the first six months of her pregnancy.

However, during an ANC visit on May 21, 2024, Unnati complained of frequent urination and fluid leakage. Sangita recognised this as a high-risk condition and advised her to visit the rural hospital immediately. During the same visit, Unnati’s hemoglobin level had dropped to 8.5 gm/dl, indicating moderate anemia. After visiting the hospital, she was treated with medication, and by June 5, her condition had improved. Her hemoglobin level increased to 9.1 gm/dl.

On June 20, 2024, during a routine visit in her eighth month of pregnancy, Sangita found Unnati in bed, crying and complaining of severe abdominal pain. Her hemoglobin level had dropped to 8.2 gm/dl. Unnati’s mother-in-law dismissed her pain, accusing her of making excuses to avoid household chores. However, seeing her distress, Sangita took her to the sub-centre, where the doctor provided medication.

A few days later, Sangita found Unnati in the same condition, so she accompanied her to the Primary Health Care Centre. The doctor informed them that the baby’s umbilical cord was wrapped around the neck.

On July 2, 2024, Unnati’s husband and mother-in-law took her to the Rural Hospital at Vikramgad (Palghar) for delivery. However, due to prolonged labor, the doctor referred her to Jawhar Sub-District Hospital. Despite initial resistance from her family, the Arogya Sakhi convinced them of the importance of transferring Unnati to the hospital. She arranged for transportation and accompanied them to Jawhar.

On July 3, 2024, Unnati delivered a healthy baby boy, weighing 2.950 kg and measuring 49 cm, at Jawhar Sub-District Hospital. Despite facing opposition from Unnati’s family, Sangita’s determination and timely intervention ensured a safe delivery.