What happens when mothers are sent home just hours after giving birth? At Vanuatu National Hospital (VNH), this is becoming the new reality, far short of the 18–28 hours recommended by postnatal care standards. (WHO, Postnatal Care Guidelines, 2022)

VNH’s maternity ward is under severe strain, with limited beds and resources unable to keep up with the growing number of births. A source speaking to VBTC News described the situation as an ongoing issue, noting that the ward still lacks adequate facilities and support.

The maternity ward currently has 34 beds and 4 delivery beds, which must accommodate mothers at all stages—from labor to postnatal care. The source stressed that due to limited space, many mothers are sent home almost immediately after giving birth, leaving them without the recommended observation period for both mother and newborn.

“This does not follow postnatal care standards of 18–28 hours, but beds must be freed for the next mother in labor,” the source explained.

An anonymous mother who recently gave birth at VNH shared her experience:
“I was only allowed to stay a few hours after giving birth. I didn’t feel ready to leave, but they said the bed was needed for the next woman in labor. It was scary and stressful, especially for my baby.”

Efforts by the Infection Control Unit to propose improvements reportedly went unheeded, leaving VNH unable to provide the level of care expected of a national hospital.

While some government support exists, the source emphasized that most assistance comes from the public and recovered patients. Donations include chairs from 46 parliamentary staff and an additional 20 chairs from Speaker of Parliament Stephen Felix.

On January 1, 2026, a total of 10 babies were born, compared with one baby on January 1, 2025. The highest recorded number on this date was 11 births in 2024. Between January and November 2025, 3,392 babies were delivered, illustrating the ongoing pressure on maternity services.

Vanuatu’s population is steadily growing, currently estimated at around 300,000, with a growth rate above 1.5% annually, contributing to increased demand on health services. (CountryReports.org, 2023)

According to health planning standards, maternity wards should have one labor bed per 250 expected annual births to ensure safe care for mothers and babies. With thousands of births occurring each year at VNH, the hospital’s current infrastructure falls far short of these standards, highlighting a critical need for expansion and improved resources. (Vanuatu Ministry of Health, Role Delineation Policy, 2021)