Pregnancy care, newborn and child health, and family health guidance
The H4P pilot in KwaZulu-Natal tests partner HIV self-testing plus PrEP support for HIV-negative women in late pregnancy whose partner status is unknown.
South Africa's 2026 RSV season has ended after a later-than-usual start, but NICD says sporadic infections can still occur.
South Africa has recorded more than 5,000 laboratory-confirmed measles cases in 2026, with the latest national surveillance data showing a sharp increase across every province.
A new respectful maternity care course launches 22 September after a Gauteng–KZN survey estimated ~60% of women experienced mistreatment during childbirth.
NICD reports a sharp Pretoria rotavirus rise and one death. Dehydration — not every loose stool — is the clinical emergency parents need to spot.
Only 59.2% of Tshwane children under one met Gauteng’s coverage measure in Q1 2026/27 — more than 30 points behind the West Rand.
A Cape Town birth-cohort study found ~4% smaller total brain volume in infants whose mothers had pregnancy anaemia — an association, not proven causation.
Breastfeeding is often described as natural, but for many mothers, the journey is far from effortless. From painful latching and concerns about milk supply to sleepless nights, recovery and the challenge of returning to work, breastfeeding can be physically and emotionally demanding. This World Breastfeeding Week, we explore why supporting mothers matters just as much as encouraging them to breastfeed.
The postpartum period can be emotionally demanding, even when everything looks fine from the outside. Understanding postpartum mental health helps mothers feel less alone during this transition.