A Lifeline for Refugee Mothers at Gheorghe Paladi Hospital
In the heart of Chișinău, Moldova, the Gheorghe Paladi hospital has become a symbol of safety and hope for many Ukrainian refugees. For Alina, a 24-year-old mother from Odessa, this hospital offered not just medical care but emotional support when she was forced to flee her war-torn home. Arriving pregnant with her second child, Alina went into premature labor in January 2023, and her newborn son required intensive care for several months.
During her stay at the hospital, Alina not only received essential medical treatment but also built strong connections with other mothers in similar situations. This sense of solidarity became crucial for her emotional well-being as she navigated the challenges of being a refugee and a mother. Alina’s story reflects the broader struggles of displaced women, who face not only physical but also mental health challenges, particularly in conflict zones.
Maternity Care and Community Support Amid Crisis
Dr. Liviu Sărăteanu, the head of the maternity ward, highlights how investments in modern perinatal care, including advanced equipment, have significantly improved outcomes for both mothers and newborns. The hospital’s capacity to handle complex cases and premature births has proven life-saving, especially in the midst of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Since the crisis began, UNFPA-supported hospitals have facilitated over 23,000 safe births, ensuring that women like Alina receive free, comprehensive care.
Alina’s experience, like many others, showcases the importance of mental health care in addition to physical treatment. Through counseling and peer support from fellow refugee mothers, she has found strength and resilience to face her new reality. Alina’s advice to other mothers is to seek psychological help early and maintain a positive mindset, reminding them that their emotional well-being directly impacts their babies.