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World's Busiest Maternity Ward

In crowded Manila, the capital of the Philippines, Anita Rani follows the lives of three different women and visits a hospital where up to 100 babies are born each day.

The head nurse in Manila's busiest maternity ward estimates that she has delivered 200,000 babies during her career. On a busy day, a hundred babies are born at the Jose Fabella hospital and women in labour lie four or five to a bed.

Anita Rani travels to the crazy crowded capital of the Philippines, to see how the countries of the developing world are facing a future with a rapidly growing population by following the lives of three different women. Rosalyn, whose seventh child will have to survive on less than a pound a day; Rose, a middle-class mum who can afford the best care in the world; and Junalyn, on a journey out of the slums to a better life.

Amid the drama of new life, Anita finds a story of economic growth and hope in Manila. Across the developing world, birth rates have plummeted, life expectancy has increased and young vibrant workforces are beginning to compete with the established economies of the West.

1 hour

Credits

Role Contributor
Director Elena Cosentino
Producer Elena Cosentino
Series Producer Sarah Waldron
Executive Producer Sam Bagnall
Presenter Anita Rani

Broadcasts

'No gas and air, no epidurals'

'"Filipino women know there's no point in screaming" explained the supervising nurse.'

Making This World

This World film-makers tell their behind the scenes stories about making the programme.