Mothers Forced to Share Beds and Sleep on Floor at Bududa Health Center

Mothers giving birth at Bulucheke Health Centre IV in Bududa District are facing significant challenges due to a severe lack of beds in the maternity ward. With only six beds available, expectant mothers and those who have just delivered are often compelled to share sleeping spaces or resort to sleeping on the floor.

This situation makes it difficult for mothers to get adequate rest, which is crucial for recovery after childbirth. Evaline Nasikye, a local resident, described how mothers are often asked to vacate beds after just two hours, even if they are still bleeding, to make way for new arrivals. This lack of rest is a major concern for maternal health.

The health center’s in-charge, Dr. Rashid Simuya, explained that the congestion is a result of a sharp increase in patient numbers that has overwhelmed the facility’s existing infrastructure. The center sees between 20 and 30 mothers for antenatal care daily and six to 10 requiring maternity services, far exceeding the capacity of the six available beds.

To cope, the facility has repurposed an observation and injection room, but this too is overcrowded, with multiple patients sharing beds. The situation is exacerbated by the rising number of outpatient attendees, which has more than doubled.

Serving a large population across multiple sub-counties, Bulucheke Health Centre IV was intended to ease the burden on Bududa Hospital. However, the growing patient numbers have outstripped its capacity.

In an effort to alleviate the pressure, the Health Unit Management Committee is constructing an additional structure. However, they emphasize the urgent need for further support from the government, local authorities, and well-wishers to expand infrastructure and improve patient conditions.

https://nilepost.co.ug/news/377316/mothers-share-beds-as-maternity-ward-struggles-in-bududa