The Ministry for Health and Active Ageing has announced the official opening of a dedicated Early Pregnancy Unit at Mater Dei Hospital, aimed at providing specialised care for individuals who suffer injuries or complications during early stages of pregnancy.
Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela made the announcement, noting that the opening of this new ward addresses a long-standing need for focused medical support in such sensitive cases. He explained that the Government had acted on calls from healthcare professionals and members of the public for a more structured and supportive environment to manage early pregnancy injuries.
“At Mater Dei Hospital, the need was felt to have a unit for people who suffer an injury during their pregnancy. The Government listened and understood the people’s request to set up this unit,” said Minister Abela.
In Malta, approximately three individuals a day experience an injury during pregnancy, with around 400 patients admitted to Mater Dei Hospital each year for complications related to early gestation. The new Early Pregnancy Unit will offer eight dedicated beds for inpatient care, allowing medical teams to closely monitor and manage patients in a calm and specialised setting.
In addition to impatient care, the ward will also include an outpatient clinic specifically designed to support individuals experiencing recurrent pregnancy injuries. This clinic will provide follow-up care, consultations, and ongoing support to help patients manage their pregnancies safely and with confidence.
The unit will be staffed by a multidisciplinary team of 20 trained professionals, including nurses and midwives, all of whom have undergone specific training to work within this area. Minister Abela confirmed that after the final preparations and staff training are complete, the Early Pregnancy Unit will begin operating next week.
“I am convinced that the Early Pregnancy Unit will not only achieve our goal, but will also be crucial for individuals who unfortunately suffer an injury during their pregnancy,” Minister Abela said. “The Government is committed to continuing to offer and improve these services for individuals who are going through this critical time in their lives.”
The launch of this unit is part of a broader national strategy to improve maternal health services and ensure that expectant parents receive timely, compassionate, and expert care during every stage of pregnancy. It also aligns with ongoing government efforts to expand patient-focused services across Malta’s public health system, particularly for vulnerable groups facing complex medical conditions, the health ministry said.