Between tradition and modernity: new medical kits for Momostenango’s Mayan midwives

In Guatemala, the Indigenous communities of the municipality of Momostenango have very limited access to healthcare. During pregnancy, few women benefit from medical follow-up, and deliveries generally take place at home. This situation contributes to one of the highest perinatal mortality rates in the world.

Guatemala’s midwives, or comadronas, provide essential support and care to women throughout the maternity process, including before, during and after childbirth. However, they have few resources available to enable them to provide the best possible care.

Provision of basic equipment

Thanks to $25,814 in funding from the Roncalli International Foundation in 2024, the project now includes the distribution of essential basic medical kits to accompany home births. Each midwife leaves her training with a complete kit essential for practicing home births in safe and dignified conditions. Included in the kit are durable instruments such as scissors and stainless-steel basins, as well as kits for changing and dressing newborns, which are given to mothers at each delivery.

Objectives and results

This project will improve the health of Mayan women during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period. The quality of care offered to women and girls will also improve. Both midwives and mothers will have access to useful health information.

As a result, the mortality rate linked to pregnancy and childbirth among Indigenous families in the municipality of Momostenango will be significantly reduced.