Dr. Ahmed al-Farra, head of pediatrics at Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, said water shortages and maternal stress may have caused the drop in births. Dr. James Smith, a British physician volunteering in Gaza, said another possible cause were heavy metals from Israeli bombs

At al-Awda Hospital, doctors say about 70% of pregnancy losses they see are linked to Israel's genocide and blockade.

Doctors say miscarriage rates have more than tripled since October 2023 as pregnant women continue to face hunger, displacement and distress