Current challenges in pregnancy-related mortality

Pregnancy is a normal, healthy state that most women are desirous for at some point in their lives. Sadly, this life-affirming process carries serious risks of death and disability for both mother and offspring. It is estimated that about 830 women die from pregnancy or pregnancy related complications each year. Almost all of these deaths occur in resource-poor countries, and most of them are preventable. Reducing maternal mortality is an ongoing challenge, and care providers, researchers and policy makers must not only identify the key barriers to accessing quality health care, but commit to making maternal health a priority.