Reproductive health promotion in Kosovo

Relief agencies that specialize in postwar emergency relief and then work to contribute to sustainable development as the crisis ends are increasingly recognizing the positive impact of midwifery care and training on reproductive health outcomes. Midwives are finding work and developing new roles in postwar reconstruction and refugee health care. This article describes the experiences of a nurse-midwife who worked for Mercy Corps International in Kosovo and launched the Kosovo Women's Health Promotion Project. A short history of the conflict in Kosovo, the effects of the war on its people and the health care system, a description of women's health care, and the status of women in Kosovo are included.