A new study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has found that severe bleeding (haemorrhage) and hypertensive disorders, like preeclampsia, are the leading causes of maternal deaths worldwide. Haemorrhage, which often occurs during or after childbirth, accounts for 27 percent of maternal deaths.
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and can lead to dangerous complications such as haemorrhage, strokes, organ failure, and seizures if not treated in time. These conditions were responsible for approximately 80,000 and 50,000 deaths, respectively, in 2020, the latest year for which data is available.
In total, there were around 287,000 maternal deaths in 2020, equating to one woman dying every two minutes. The report reveals that many women still lack access to life-saving treatments and care during and after pregnancy.
Alongside haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders, other health conditions such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, anemia, and diabetes contribute significantly to maternal deaths, accounting for nearly a quarter (23 percent) of pregnancy-related fatalities. Many of these conditions go undetected or untreated until complications arise, increasing risks for many women worldwide.
Understanding the causes of maternal deaths is key to addressing the global maternal mortality crisis. Women everywhere need high-quality, evidence-based healthcare before, during, and after delivery. Preventative measures, early detection, and treatment of underlying conditions are critical to reducing maternal mortality.
Other direct causes of maternal deaths include infections (sepsis), pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs), and complications from abortions (both spontaneous and unsafe). Risks also stem from anesthetic complications and injuries during childbirth.
The findings highlight the urgent need to improve maternity care. Early antenatal services can help detect risks, while emergency care is essential for birth-related complications such as haemorrhage. Postnatal care is equally important, as most maternal deaths occur during or shortly after childbirth. However, about a third of women, particularly in lower-income countries, still do not receive essential postnatal care within the first few days after birth.
Often, a combination of factors contributes to maternal deaths. For instance, preeclampsia increases the risk of haemorrhage and other complications that may arise long after childbirth. A holistic approach to maternal health improves the chances of a healthy pregnancy, a safe birth, and a good quality of life after delivery. Health systems must support women at all stages of life to ensure better outcomes.
Efforts are underway to improve maternal health globally. In 2024, a global roadmap was launched to address postpartum haemorrhage, focusing on key priorities to reduce this major cause of maternal death. Additionally, a resolution was passed to strengthen care before, during, and after childbirth.
World Health Day in 2025 will focus on maternal and newborn health, marking five years since the Sustainable Development Goals deadline. The campaign aims to intensify efforts to ensure women, especially in the poorest regions and crisis settings, have access to high-quality healthcare. It will also emphasize the need for ongoing attention to women’s health, including postnatal care and support.
