Maternal Death

When a woman dies during pregnancy, the delivery of her child, or soon after (typically within 42 days) as a result related to the pregnancy or its management, it is considered a maternal death. When the mother’s death results from accidental or incidental causes, it is not considered to be a maternal death. Sadly, about 700 women die each year in the United States as a result of pregnancy or delivery complications.

What to know about maternal death:

• Maternal deaths can happen in both low and high-risk pregnancies.
• Globally, maternal mortality has decreased while in the United States maternal deaths have been on the rise.
• There are many complications that, if not identified and treated appropriately, can cause untimely maternal death. Examples are hemorrhage, hypertensive disorder, sepsis, abortions, uterine rupture, and embolisms.  

For more information: World Health Organization – Maternal Mortality Ratio (per 100,000 live births)