Lilian S., 39

UTI in pregnancy is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract occurring during pregnancy, commonly causing painful or frequent urination, lower abdominal pain and sometimes fever. If untreated, it may progress to kidney infection or sepsis. Severe malaria in pregnancy is a serious malaria infection associated with complications such as severe anaemia, hypoglycaemia, organ dysfunction, fetal distress, preterm delivery or pregnancy loss.

Lilian Akinyi Sika is a 39-year-old mother expecting her seventh child. She lives with her husband and children in a rural village. Her husband relies on irregular menial jobs to support them, his elderly parents, nieces and nephews. His earnings are often insufficient, and some days he returns home with nothing for food. Two days before seeking care, Lilian developed swollen legs, weakness, poor appetite, abdominal pain, painful urination and a whitish vaginal discharge. A friend connected her husband with a Helpster volunteer, whom he contacted by phone. The volunteer directed them to the facility for assessment and assistance through Helpster Charity. Following examination and laboratory investigations, the doctor recommended admission. Worried about the cost, her husband asked whether they could return home to look for money or seek care at a public hospital, highlighting the financial barriers to Lilian receiving the treatment she needed.

Sika was diagnosed with severe malaria, anaemia and UTI in pregnancy, a significant combination requiring urgent inpatient treatment and maternal-fetal monitoring. Untreated UTI may progress to pyelonephritis and sepsis, while severe malaria can cause maternal anaemia, organ dysfunction, fetal growth restriction, preterm delivery, fetal compromise or pregnancy loss. Appropriate antimalarials, antibiotics, hydration and supportive care are necessary. A good response to treatment is expected.