Venezuela Earthquakes: Rising Health Concerns for Pregnant Women and New Mothers Amidst Devastation

On June 24, 2026, two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in their wake. The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, damaged or destroyed dozens of health facilities, including hospitals and clinics, and displaced approximately 21,000 people. The impact of this disaster is particularly concerning for pregnant women and new mothers, who are facing growing health risks in the aftermath.

According to the United Nations, there are around 36,700 pregnant women who have been affected by the earthquakes, with about 4,000 expected to give birth in the next month. This translates to roughly 130 babies being born every day, many of whom will be at risk of health complications due to the lack of access to proper medical care and facilities. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that many obstetricians and pediatricians were among the over 5,000 people killed in the disaster, leaving families without access to essential healthcare services.

In La Guaira, one of the hardest-hit areas, the main maternity hospital remains closed, forcing expectant mothers to seek care in other areas. While basic care is available, complicated cases must be referred to Caracas, which can be a significant challenge for those who have lost their homes and are living in temporary shelters. Many of these shelters lack access to antenatal care, nutritious food, clean water, and sanitation, further increasing the risk of health problems for both mothers and babies.

Research has shown that high levels of stress and anxiety during pregnancy can have a profound impact on a baby's brain development and immune system, increasing the risk of preterm birth or even miscarriage. Babies exposed to elevated maternal stress during pregnancy may also exhibit more fear, sadness, and distress at three months of age than those born to mothers who experienced less stress. The situation in Venezuela is further complicated by the limited access to nutritious food, uncontrolled infant formula donations, and reduced antenatal care during pregnancy, all of which heighten the risk of malnutrition in infants and increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.

Stories of individual women and their experiences in the aftermath of the earthquakes are a testament to the resilience and strength of those affected. Yohana, a 23-year-old pregnant woman, was alone at home when the earthquake hit, causing her building to collapse. She managed to escape by breaking a window, but lost her glasses in the process, adding to her panic. Yohana received a healthcare checkup at a mobile clinic run by Save the Children partner, Paluz, in La Guaira.

Meanwhile, newborn babies and infants living in temporary shelters are falling sick from damp conditions or are at risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue during the country's rainy season. Some mothers living in these shelters report feeling stressed and anxious, and struggle to buy nappies and other essential supplies for their babies. Yennifer, a 23-year-old mother, is breastfeeding her four-month-old baby, Carmen, but struggled to take care of her own health after the earthquake, which killed her child's pediatrician.

The situation in Venezuela serves as a stark reminder of the importance of supporting pregnant women and new mothers in crisis situations. It is essential that humanitarian efforts prioritize the needs of these vulnerable groups, providing access to healthcare, nutritious food, and safe shelter. By doing so, we can help mitigate the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth in the aftermath of a disaster, and ensure that mothers and babies receive the care and support they need to thrive.