According to a survey conducted by Belta Co., Ltd. on “disaster preparedness during pregnancy,” the anxieties pregnant women have about disasters have become evident. This survey, targeting 131 women who have experienced pregnancy, was conducted in preparation for “Disaster Preparedness Month” in September 2024. The results revealed that while pregnant women have a high awareness of disaster preparedness, very few are actually taking specific measures.
Few Pregnant Women Are Taking Disaster Preparedness Measures
According to the survey, about 60.5% of respondents said they had considered the possibility of experiencing a disaster while pregnant. The most concerning issue in the event of a disaster during pregnancy was whether they would be able to provide necessary nutrition to their unborn child. Nearly 80% of women shared this concern, regardless of whether they were living in evacuation shelters or dealing with the aftermath at home.
Many also expressed concern about whether they would have access to support when feeling unwell, particularly highlighting anxieties about communal living in evacuation shelters and difficulties obtaining information at home.
Although 64.3% of respondents said they were taking general disaster preparedness measures, only 2.4% had specific strategies for pregnancy. This reveals that despite heightened disaster awareness, very few pregnant women are implementing tailored preparedness measures. More than half of those who had not taken special measures said they “wanted to but couldn’t,” indicating the challenges involved in preparing for disasters during pregnancy.
As for concrete disaster preparedness measures, 68.2% of respondents said they wanted “provision of disaster supplies for pregnant and postpartum women.” This includes items such as warming supplies, nutritional supplements, bottles, and hygiene products, reflecting strong concerns about shortages of essential items during disasters. Additionally, requests were made for “designated rest areas in shelters where pregnant women can relax,” “consultation services regarding health and childbirth,” and “nutritional support for pregnant women.”
One of the most significant concerns in a disaster was the difficulty of continuing to take folic acid supplements, which are necessary during pregnancy. A total of 83.7% of respondents said they were worried about not being able to take folic acid continuously in the event of a disaster, and most said they wanted to continue taking it even in such situations. The strong desire for nutritional supplements underscores the importance of securing necessary nutrients during pregnancy.
These survey results highlight the anxieties pregnant women face during disasters and the lack of adequate disaster preparedness measures. Pregnant women, in particular, need special disaster preparedness measures to protect their health and that of their unborn child, yet few have taken such actions. Additionally, the lack of awareness of municipal disaster preparedness services is a problem, emphasizing the urgent need for tailored disaster strategies for pregnant women.
To avoid regret after a disaster strikes, it is essential not only for pregnant women but also for society as a whole to raise awareness of “disaster preparedness during pregnancy” and to implement necessary measures.
As part of its disaster preparedness initiatives for pregnant women, Belta Co., Ltd. provides the “Pre-Mama Disaster Preparedness Book” and supports the stockpiling of “Belta Folic Acid Supplements.” The company is also working with municipalities nationwide to raise disaster preparedness awareness among pregnant women, with plans to continue supporting a safe living environment for pregnant women.
Through these activities, disaster preparedness for pregnant women will further progress, and there is a need for greater societal awareness to ensure the safety of pregnant women.
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