Ukraine

The lockdown has brought many difficulties and experiences to the lives of pregnant Ukrainian women, changing their daily routines and working practices and reducing their access to health care services. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the COVID-19 pandemic could prevent the provision of vital medical services to pregnant…, Yulia. Getting used to the new world, “When I got pregnant that was one world, but when I give birth it will be a completely different world. In the last three months of the lockdown, our ordinary world has changed so much. And we need to get used to it,” says Yulia from Kharkiv, who is now seven months pregnant. Yulia is carefully following all the precautions to avoid contracting…, Valia. The expecting mother must stay strong, Valia, a mother-to-be, walks 11,000 to 15,000 steps every day in the parks and streets of Uzhhorod, avoiding the city centre and busy places. Valia has always taken a responsible approach to exercising and her health, but now – during her lockdown pregnancy – it is more important than ever. And now, in addition to a water bottle, active Valia…, Anastasia. Overcoming fear of the unknown, Anastasia from Kyiv has been keeping transparent bags at home for several weeks. She keeps the things for her future child there. The bags are waiting for the exciting day when Nastia and her husband will go to the maternity clinic. “I was lucky that back in March, before the lockdown, I managed to choose a maternity clinic. And I am lucky that…