Banishing Ethiopia's 'Mother Stealer'

"I delivered, and then the Stealer came," said Asmer Geremew, in Tebabari, Ethiopia. People in her community say the Mother Stealer comes to claim the lives of women in childbirth © UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene

No ambulances were available when Ms. Asmer gave birth three years ago. When she began bleeding, friends and family carried her to help, shooting guns on the way to scare off the Stealer. © UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene

Residents carry a sick woman to the Ambesame Health Centre. But things are improving - ambulances are now available for women with labour complications. © UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene

Health officials and local leaders are also urging women to get prenatal care and to deliver in health facilities. Yetemgen Tebabel waits to see a midwife at a local health centre. © UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene

These measures are making a difference. Anguach Abebaw has been referred to the Ambesame Health Center for labour complications. Midwife Fasika Maru examines her. © UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene

The foetus is in a dangerous position. Ms. Anguach will be transferred to a referral hospital where more advanced care - such as a Caesarean section - can be provided. ©UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene

Ms. Anguach's parents accompany her in the ambulance. Emergency surgical staff are waiting for them at Finote Selam District Hospital. © UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene

Hundreds of emergency surgical officers are being trained through a UNFPA-supported programme. These staff saved the life of Yalem Belay, who delivered by C-section at the Finote Selam hospital. © UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene

Belaynesh Sema rests with her newborn, Gize Melak, while she receives treatment for post-partum complications. Officials hope efforts like these will help to banish the Mother Stealer for good. © UNFPA/Mulugeta Ayene