New Birthing House Helps Reduce Maternal and Newborn Morbidity and
Mortality
In October 2006, the U.S. Chargé d’Affairs, Gary Gray, and Timor-Leste’s Minister of Health, Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo, jointly inaugurated a new birthing house in Liquiça district. Support for the birthing house was provided by USAID partner, Health Alliance International (HAI). It combines traditional elements of pre- and post-natal care with modern practices to ensure safe and clean delivery. The birthing house will make the delivery process more comfortable for expectant Timorese mothers, resulting in a greater likelihood of a safe delivery and a reduction in the morbidity and mortality of women and their newborns. HAI soon plans to open another birthing house in Aileu district and may expand to other areas if the program is successful. USAID is financing the HAI program in Timor-Leste to reduce maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality. (Nov. 6, 2006)

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