Pregnant Women in Bugiri Missing Antenatal Care Over Lack of Underwear

Pregnant women in Bugiri District are skipping antenatal care services because they lack basic clothing, including underwear and maternity wear, local leaders and residents have said. The situation is increasingly being linked to poverty, stigma, and fear of humiliation at health facilities.

Officials warn that the trend is pushing expectant mothers toward Traditional Birth Attendants, undermining efforts to improve safe motherhood services in the district.

Bugiri District Secretary for Health and Education, Ms Martha Namboozo, raised the concern during an event introducing Early Years Count Uganda, a non-governmental organisation focused on maternal and child welfare. She said some women avoid health centres because they feel ashamed of their appearance or cannot afford basic personal items needed during pregnancy.

According to Ms Namboozo, embarrassment plays a major role, with some health workers allegedly ridiculing women for poor dressing, discouraging them from returning for antenatal visits.

She added that the problem is more severe in rural areas where limited household income is often spent on food, school fees, and other urgent needs, leaving little for maternity clothing. She also pointed to weak support systems from partners in some households.

Residents say the situation is worsened by fear and negative experiences at health facilities.

Ms Aisha Namukemo from Kayogera Village said some women avoid clinics due to fear of being shamed and because they lack what they believe are required items for attendance.

Ms Hadijja Kagoya from Bugiri Municipality called for stronger government support, saying many pregnant women are left without financial or emotional help after conception.

District leaders say they are taking the matter for further discussion. Bugiri Vice Chairperson Mr David Okelo Nalugada said the district will review the complaints and step up monitoring of health facilities to improve service delivery and accountability.

Health workers, however, say antenatal care remains essential and free, and insist that examinations are conducted with privacy and professionalism. They also note that low male involvement continues to affect attendance, partly due to fear of HIV testing.

Medical experts further explain that some discomfort during late pregnancy can make underwear or tight clothing difficult to wear, but emphasize that this varies among individuals.

Authorities have called for stronger community sensitisation to encourage antenatal attendance and address social and economic barriers affecting maternal health in Bugiri.