The drive to reduce maternal deaths has stagnated worldwide – with increases in Europe, according to an “alarming” report published today.
In Europe and Northern America, the maternal mortality rate has increased by 17% between 2016 and 2020, according to a report by the United Nations and the World Health Organization.
In 2020, worldwide, there were 287,000 maternal deaths compared with 309,000 in 2016, the report reveals.
Severe bleeding, high blood pressure, pregnancy-related infections, complications from unsafe abortion, and underlying conditions that can be aggravated by pregnancy, such as HIV/AIDS and malaria, are the leading causes of deaths, the report says.
It warns of underfunding of primary health systems, shortages of trained health workers and weak supply chains for medical products. One third of pregnant women do not receive four of the eight standard antenatal checks or receive post-natal care, it says.
WHO director-general Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: “While pregnancy should be a time of immense hope and a positive experience for all women, it is tragically still a shockingly dangerous experience for millions around the world who lack access to high quality, respectful health care.”
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said: “For millions of families, the miracle of childbirth is marred by the tragedy of maternal deaths. No mother should have to fear for her life while bringing a baby into the world, especially when the knowledge and tools to treat common complications exist.
“Equity in healthcare gives every mother, no matter who they are or where they are, a fair chance at a safe delivery and a healthy future with their family.”
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