By: Jennifer Nerkie Kenney
Neonatal mortality in Ghana has declined in recent years but remains alarmingly high, with most deaths occurring within the first 12 hours of life. According to a Principal Midwifery Officer at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Felicia Martey Dodoo, preventable causes such as infections, poor feeding, and birth asphyxia continue to claim the lives of thousands of newborns annually.
Speaking on GTV’s Breakfast Show on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, she said many mothers are still unaware of danger signs like fever, breathing difficulties, and persistent weakness in babies. She emphasized that delays in seeking medical care worsen the situation.
“Neonatal care starts immediately after birth from clearing the baby’s airway, keeping the child warm, and ensuring breastfeeding within the first hour. If we do not pay attention during the first 28 days of life, complications may arise that could become irreversible,” Mrs. Dodoo explained.
The Ministry of Health has set a target of reducing neonatal deaths to 12 per 1,000 live births by 2030. However, health workers argue that deep-rooted misconceptions and poor referral systems continue to hinder progress. Common practices, such as applying herbs or toothpaste to a baby’s umbilical cord, remain widespread despite public health education.
“Some mothers are pressured by in-laws or relatives to use traditional methods. We see babies come back with infections, yellow eyes, or even severe complications. It is not that mothers don’t want to follow instructions, they often face challenges at home,” the midwifery officer noted.
Another major concern raised was the misconception about breastfeeding. Some mothers discard colostrum, the thick yellow milk produced immediately after birth, believing it is “dirty,” even though it contains antibodies that protect the baby against infections.
“That first breast milk is very important for building a baby’s immunity. Even if only a few drops come out, it is enough to sustain the baby and trigger more milk production. It goes a long way to help the baby. Mothers must not replace it with formula unless under strict medical supervision,” Mrs. Dodoo stressed.
She further highlighted the importance of early detection of neonatal danger signs. According to her, delays in reporting symptoms such as jaundice, poor activity, or refusal to feed often lead to avoidable deaths.
“Once a baby shows danger signs, parents must report immediately to the hospital. Early detection saves lives, but when families delay, conditions that could have been treated easily can lead to lifelong complications or even death,” she cautioned.
As part of efforts to address neonatal mortality, midwives are working closely with community health nurses to conduct follow-up visits, especially in rural and peri-urban areas where access to healthcare is limited. They also encourage mothers to attend at least three postnatal visits within the first six weeks after delivery.
“Our role does not end in the delivery room. We follow up with immunization, weighing, and postnatal checks. Babies cannot speak for themselves, so we are their advocates. We urge families to listen to health professionals and put aside outdated practices,” she said.
