Judith N., 19

Judith is a young teenager and partial orphan who never had the opportunity to attend school. She lives with her spouse, children and nephew in a one-room mud-walled house. The household depends mainly on her spouse’s fishing, but he often returns without a catch or income. Limited support occasionally comes from her sister-in-law. Without formal education or vocational skills, Judith is willing to undertake any work that could help support her family. Judith learnt that she was pregnant after missing her periods and being tested at a nearby health centre. She enrolled for antenatal care and attended three visits, walking for nearly an hour each way. One evening, she developed abdominal pain and was taken to a health centre by her mother-in-law. Examination revealed cephalopelvic disproportion, meaning the baby could not safely pass through her pelvis. She was referred to Siaya County Referral Hospital for an emergency Caesarean section. With no health insurance and no means to meet the bill, Judith was referred to the Social Work office, where she learnt about Helpster Charity.

Judith was diagnosed with cephalopelvic disproportion, which prevented a safe vaginal delivery and necessitated an emergency Caesarean section. The timely surgical intervention helped prevent potentially serious complications associated with obstructed labour. Following appropriate obstetric care and postoperative management, Judith's s condition is stable and she is expected to recover well. The prognosis is good, provided she continues with follow-up care, adheres to medical advice, and receives adequate nutritional and psychosocial support during her recovery period.