Pregnant Ukrainian Soldiers Stay on the Front Until Their Seventh Month

The army has few resources for expecting mothers.

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The army has few resources for expecting mothers.

Unlike in NATO armies, pregnant Ukrainian soldiers often remain in combat until their seventh month.

This shows both the shortage of personnel and the women’s own determination to serve despite personal risks.

Nadia, a 25-year-old radio operator, served until she was eight and a half months pregnant.

She described brushing plaster off her bed after nightly explosions, all while worrying about her unborn child’s safety.

Olena, a combat medic, discovered she was pregnant after months of trying while serving at the front.

“War is war, but life goes on,” she said, adding that motherhood gave her even more reason to fight for Ukraine’s future.

The army has few resources for expecting mothers. Maternity uniforms are often supplied by charities.

Prenatal clinics are scarce, and many hospitals in war zones have closed, forcing soldiers to carry on with minimal support.

After childbirth, women must decide whether to take unpaid leave or return quickly to the front.

Some, like Valentyna, cut short maternity leave to fight again. Others, like Nadia, chose years at home but vowed to return.

Experts note that gender bias is widespread in Ukraine’s armed forces.

Some commanders refuse to take mothers back, arguing they should stay at home. Women who insist on returning often have to fight to be accepted.

Military doctors say pregnancies in uniform carry a special purpose.

“They are reminded what they are fighting for, their children and Ukraine’s future,” said Dr. Vita Marchenko, who delivers babies in Sloviansk.

Despite risks, many women say their service is for their children as much as their country.

“We have to protect our children. And we have to liberate the country for their future,” said Olya, a combat medic who gave birth in May.