Maternal Morbidity and Mortality

Maternal morbidity and mortality are critical issues in global public health. Maternal morbidity refers to any health condition that occurs during pregnancy or in the postpartum period that adversely affects the health of the mother. Maternal mortality, on the other hand, refers to the death of a mother during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of the end of pregnancy. Despite significant progress in maternal and child health over the past few decades, maternal morbidity and mortality rates remain unacceptably high in many parts of the world, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. These issues are multifactorial and can be influenced by social determinants of health, access to quality healthcare, and individual health behaviors. Addressing maternal morbidity and mortality requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving access to quality prenatal care, skilled birth attendants, emergency obstetric care, and postpartum support.