Maternal health—referring to the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period—is a powerful indicator of a country’s overall health system. Yet, nearly 800 women worldwide die daily from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Most of these deaths occur in low-income settings and could be avoided with access to proper care.
Good maternal health starts long before delivery. It can generally be grouped into three vital intervals:
- Quality prenatal care. This ensures early detection of potential complications. Antenatal visits offer crucial services such as vaccinations, nutritional support, and screenings for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and infections. These interventions can be life-saving for both mother and baby.
- Skilled birth care. Many maternal deaths are due to severe bleeding, infections, and complications from unsafe deliveries. When skilled health professionals—such as midwives or doctors—are present, the chances of survival increase dramatically. Access to emergency obstetric care, including C-sections when necessary, is also key.
- Postpartum care. Though often overlooked, it is essential as many complications arise after birth, particularly in the first 24 to 48 hours. Support for breastfeeding, mental health, and family planning plays a critical role in a mother's recovery and well-being.
Importantly, maternal health is not just a medical issue—it's a societal one. Women in rural areas or those from marginalized communities often face the greatest barriers to care: poverty, lack of transport, cultural stigma, or weak health infrastructure. Tackling these barriers requires policy support, investment in community health systems, and education.
Investing in maternal health saves lives, strengthens families, and supports national development. A healthy mother is the foundation of a healthy family—and by extension, a healthy society. Now more than ever, prioritizing maternal care is not just a healthcare goal—it’s a moral imperative.
