Antonina Botsman - a midwife with 35 years of experience. For most of her life, she has worked in the field of sexual and reproductive health, ensuring the well-being of mothers.

With the escalation of the war in February 2022, the working conditions for professionals in the field of sexual and reproductive health have undoubtedly changed. Lack of staff, constant threat of shelling, and an increase in premature births have significantly impacted the current state of the healthcare system. Antonina Botsman talked with UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund team in Ukraine, about her work and midwifery experience during the war.

"At the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, it was very challenging to work because there were only a few staff left. Now, the situation is gradually improving, with both specialists and patients returning to the city. The main problem at the moment is logistics, as access to sexual and reproductive health services is still very limited in many parts of the region," sighs Antonina.

The issue of accessibility to services is currently one of the most pressing, as the full-scale invasion has put the lives and health of millions of Ukrainians at risk. Antonina shares her experience of working with vulnerable populations.

"Once I went to see a woman from a disadvantaged family as part of in-home care. She was about to give birth. When I arrived, I found out she was already giving birth! It turned out I arrived just in time. The delivery went smoothly, and the baby was healthy. Sometimes in my work it’s important not to panic and not to harm," shares Ms. Antonina.

Despite the challenges of war, sexual and reproductive health services are adapting to the needs of each region and each patient through the diligent work of medical personnel.

"People register for consultations by phone and receive electronic referrals. We help everyone who comes to us, and thanks to integration with state medical services, women can receive the full range of assistance for free," explains Ms. Antonina.

The full-scale invasion led to changes not only in the healthcare system but also in people's consciousness. Antonina notes that there has been a major revaluation of what is important ​​in Ukrainian society, especially when it comes to such values as family.

"People understand that families should stick together, help each other, and spread kindness. I have always treated people with respect, both in my work and in my personal life. There’s always a friendly, cozy atmosphere at the office," smiles Antonina.

"I encourage women to take better care of their health, treat themselves with respect, and regularly see the doctor. To do everything on time. Women, especially older ones, often neglect this," Antonina concludes.

Antonina underwent training as part of the "Midwife in the Community" project initiated by UNFPA Ukraine, to expand midwives' opportunities through educational programs and mentoring initiatives. By enhancing their skills and knowledge, UNFPA Ukraine aims to equip midwives with the tools necessary to provide evidence-based assistance and support to women and newborns in their communities.

The "Midwife in the Community" project is implemented within the framework of UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Ukraine, as part of the humanitarian response, with financial support from the Government of Sweden.