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Add to Preferred SourcesAn estimated 11,600 pregnant women have been impacted by the earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31, 2025. United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) deployed emergency teams within hours to provide health and protection services to women and girls, according to a press release from the UN agency.
Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the Asia Pacific region. Pregnancy carries risks even under normal circumstances. The earthquake has created challenges for expectant mothers in remote areas where damaged roads make access difficult, turning pregnancy into emergencies for women who already face health risks.
UNFPA has deployed four mobile health teams equipped with supplies and ambulance services across Nangarhar, Kunar, Laghman and Nuristan provinces. The teams provide maternal and reproductive healthcare to women in earthquake-affected communities. The agency has distributed reproductive health supplies to support safe births in health centers and hospitals, along with hygiene items including menstrual health supplies, soap and disinfectant.
The UN agency continues operating 20 health clinics, family health centers and psychosocial support centers in the affected areas.
“For pregnant women, a natural disaster can turn an already challenging time into a life-threatening crisis,” said UNFPA Representative Kwabena Asante-Ntiamoah.
Executive Director Diene Keita emphasized the need for response to meet the needs of women, girls and communities during their recovery.