Where Do Maternal Deaths Occur?
Maternal death—defined as the loss of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth or within 42 days after delivery—remains a major global health issue. While mortality rates have fallen over the decades, wide disparities still exist between high‑ and low-income countries.
Global Disparities in Maternal Mortality
Approximately 94 % of all maternal deaths occur in developing regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. In contrast, high-income countries report far lower mortality rates due to stronger health infrastructure and access to professional care.
Where the Risk Is Highest
- Sub-Saharan Africa: Highest rates globally. Many areas exceed 500 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.
- South Asia: Significant burden, but improving steadily due to better access to health services.
- Rural and hard‑to‑reach communities: High risk due to limited emergency care, long transport times, and shortage of trained personnel.
- Urban slums: Poor sanitation, overcrowding and financial barriers reduce access to quality obstetric services.
Main Causes of Maternal Death
The majority of maternal deaths arise from preventable causes, including:
- Hemorrhage (severe bleeding)
- Hypertensive disorders such as preeclampsia/eclampsia
- Sepsis (infection during or after childbirth)
- Unsafe abortion—where legal services are lacking
- Obstructed labour without timely intervention
Contributing Factors
- Poor access to skilled birth attendants and emergency obstetric care.
- Delays in recognising complications and seeking care ("three delays": decision to seek care, reaching a health facility, receiving adequate treatment).
- Poverty, low maternal education and gender inequality.
- Cultural practices—such as early marriage, preference for home births, and traditional birth practices without medical support.
Healthcare Strategies to Reduce Maternal Deaths
- Improve facility-based care: Expand access to emergency obstetric and neonatal services with skilled staff, blood transfusion and surgical capabilities.
- Strengthen antenatal and postnatal care: Early detection and management of complications, plus post-delivery follow-up up to six weeks.
- Ensure transport and referral systems: Reliable transport and efficient referral pathways are critical in rural areas.
- Empower women: Education, family planning and financial support reduce risk and allow timely medical access.
- Community engagement: Awareness campaigns, training of traditional birth attendants, and involvement of men can address cultural barriers.
Progress & Remaining Gaps
Worldwide maternal mortality has dropped by over 40 % since 2000, thanks to investments in health systems and international initiatives. Yet, many countries still struggle to meet Sustainable Development Goal 3.1, which aims to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030.
Internal Resources
FAQs
What is the global maternal mortality ratio?
It averaged around 211 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2017, but rates vary widely between regions.
Why does sub-Saharan Africa have the highest rates?
Challenges include weak health systems, high poverty, low female education, and cultural barriers to accessing care.
Which steps help prevent maternal death during childbirth?
Key measures include skilled attendance, active management of the third stage of labour, access to blood, antibiotics and emergency surgery.
How can communities help reduce maternal deaths?
By promoting education, safe transport, encouraging facility births and supporting women's access to healthcare services.
Are maternal deaths still preventable?
Yes—most are preventable through timely, quality medical care and strong support systems.