A new study from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that severe bleeding and high blood pressure disorders, such as preeclampsia, are the top causes of maternal deaths worldwide. The report, published today in The Lancet Global Health, indicates that these conditions led to approximately 80,000 and 50,000 deaths, respectively, in 2020—the last year with complete data available.
The study highlights a serious issue: many women still do not have access to essential medical care and treatments during and after pregnancy and childbirth. This is especially critical as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aimed at improving health equity worldwide, were introduced in 2015.
In addition to severe bleeding and high blood pressure, the study also found that about 23% of deaths during pregnancy and childbirth are linked to other health issues. These include infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria, as well as chronic conditions such as diabetes and anemia. Many of these problems often go unnoticed until they lead to severe complications, increasing the risks for many women.
Pascale Allotey, director for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research at WHO, emphasized the importance of understanding the reasons behind maternal deaths. “It’s essential to address the ongoing crisis of maternal mortality and ensure that women have the best possible chances during childbirth,” she said. She also pointed out that access to high-quality healthcare is a major equity issue—women everywhere should receive reliable medical assistance before, during, and after childbirth.
The study identified other significant direct causes of maternal deaths, including infections, complications related to abortions (both spontaneous and unsafe), and issues related to anesthesia during childbirth.
