Baby dies after breech birth – mom speaks out

Heartbreak at Frontier Hospital: Komani Mom Loses Newborn

A Komani mother is left devastated after losing her newborn baby at Frontier Hospital. Thandokazi Blandile, 37, says she is still trying to process the tragedy and is demanding answers from the Eastern Cape Department of Health.

C-Section Planned but Not Followed

Blandile had been admitted to Hewu Hospital in Whittlesea on 4 November after experiencing severe abdominal pain. Doctors there identified that her baby was in a breech position and recommended an urgent C-section to prevent complications. She was then transferred to Frontier Hospital in Komani for the procedure.

However, according to Blandile, once she arrived at Frontier, staff did not follow the plan for a surgical birth. “I was told to attempt a normal delivery even though my baby was breech. I knew this was risky, but my concerns were ignored,” she said.

Baby Stuck During Labour

During the labour, Blandile says her baby became stuck, and medical staff were slow to provide assistance. When the baby was finally delivered, it was barely breathing and could not survive. The heartbreaking news was only revealed to Blandile while she was being stitched after delivery, leaving her shocked and grief-stricken.

“The baby’s head got stuck for a long time. When he finally came out, he struggled to breathe and could not recover,” she explained.

Mother Suffers Lasting Injuries

In addition to losing her baby, Blandile sustained serious injuries during the ordeal, including partial paralysis in her left leg. She says she was not attended to properly after the delivery, which worsened her condition and added to her suffering.

“They only helped me the following day when I asked to be discharged so I could prepare for my child’s funeral,” she said.

Family Buries Baby, Calls for Answers

Blandile’s family laid the baby to rest on 7 November, but the loss has left the family seeking justice and accountability. She has appealed to the Department of Health for an explanation and hopes that proper investigations are conducted to ensure that other mothers do not go through similar experiences.

Attempts to reach the Eastern Cape Department of Health for comment have so far been unsuccessful, adding to the family’s frustration.

A Warning for Expectant Mothers

This tragic incident highlights the risks that can occur when medical instructions are not followed during childbirth. Mothers-to-be are being reminded to insist on proper care and to understand their rights, particularly when complications like breech births arise.