In response to the Social Democrats' calls to stop cuts to maternity care funding, which gained momentum after a public outcry regarding rough paper towels used in Malmö hospitals, Health Minister Lena Hallengren has denounced their efforts as "political theater." The debate intensified following a debate article by 87 midwives in the region of Skåne, highlighting how budget cuts have severely affected the level of care available to mothers and their newborns.

The midwives detailed alarming conditions, noting, "If you give birth here, we cannot promise you ointment for your sore nipples or even a warm blanket to sleep with." This testimony resonated with the public, amplifying the scrutiny on the government's funding policies and provoking a fierce debate at the national level. Amidst the controversy, government officials, including Culture Minister Parisa Liljestrand and hospital board chair Maria Berglund, have denied the claims regarding the use of harsh paper towels.