War and Maternal Health: The Effects of the Gaza Conflict on Pregnancy

The ongoing violence in Gaza, particularly since the escalation that began in October 2023, poses serious concerns for pregnant women living in the region. In this densely populated area housing over two million residents, women face several complex challenges that jeopardize their health, safety, and psychological well-being. This paper examines the adverse effects of war on pregnant women in Gaza, including limited access to healthcare, malnutrition, psychological trauma, disruptions to prenatal and postnatal care, and the profound impact of war on maternal and fetal health outcomes. The detrimental impact of ongoing conflict on maternal health is a pressing concern, particularly as many individuals navigate complications during pregnancy and childbirth. The deterioration of the local healthcare system under the strain of conflict exacerbates these issues, posing severe threats to the well-being of mothers and children in Gaza. The potential for continued and escalated conflict raises fears of intensified humanitarian crises, which could impact an even larger population. Despite these overwhelming challenges, healthcare professionals and humanitarian organizations should strive to respond to the urgent needs of pregnancy-related care amidst the adversities of war.