Bleeding and hypertension leading causes of maternal death, WHO study

Pregnancy complication: WHO’s latest study suggest that in 2020, approximately 287,000 maternal deaths were recorded globally, equivalent to one death every two minutes (Image: Canva)

Pregnancy is supposed to be a time of joy and happiness. However, for many women, it turns into a life-threatening journey. A new study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed alarming gaps in maternal healthcare with life-threatening complications, often went undiagnosed and untreated.

A new study by the WHO, published in the Lancet Global Health, reveals that haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders like preeclampsia were among the leading causes of maternal deaths, accounting for thousands of fatalities in 2020. Experts stress the urgent need for better detection, treatment, and proper maternal care to prevent unnecessary deaths. The study points out that despite advancements in medical science, many women, especially in low-income countries, still lack access to life-saving healthcare during and after pregnancy, putting their lives at risk.

The findings from WHO’s latest study suggest that in 2020, approximately 287,000 maternal deaths were recorded globally, equivalent to one death every two minutes. Among these, haemorrhage accounted for 27 percent, making it the single largest cause of maternal mortality, followed by preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders (16 percent).

Haemorrhage, often occurring during or after childbirth, can lead to rapid deterioration if not treated immediately. Preeclampsia, a severe condition marked by high blood pressure, poses a significant risk of strokes, seizures, organ failure, and death if left unmanaged.

Beyond these direct causes, the report also sheds light on the role of underlying health conditions, such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, anaemia, and diabetes, which contribute to nearly 23 percent of maternal deaths. These conditions, often undiagnosed or left untreated, increase pregnancy risks, and complicate childbirth, particularly in regions where healthcare access is limited.

According to a study, haemorrhage accounted for 27 percent, making it the single largest cause of maternal mortality, followed by preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders (16 percent) (Image: Canva)

Understanding why pregnant women and mothers are dying is critical for tackling the world’s lingering maternal mortality crisis, said Dr Pascal Allotey, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health at WHO. She stressed that better access to quality maternal care could help reduce these preventable deaths.

One of the most pressing concerns revealed by the study is the lack of adequate antenatal, obstetric and postnatal care, particularly in low-income countries. Many women do not receive the necessary checkups during pregnancy to detect complications early, and even when they do, the healthcare infrastructure is often ill-equipped to provide timely interventions.

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Research indicates that a third of new mothers globally do not receive essential postnatal care in the critical days following childbirth, leaving them vulnerable to life-threatening conditions like infections, embolisms, and postnatal haemorrhage.

Other overlooked but deadly contributors to maternal mortality include sepsis and infections, pulmonary embolism complications from spontaneous and induced abortions and injuries during childbirth. Many of these could be prevented with strong healthcare systems, access to emergency obstetric care, and increased awareness about maternal health risks. “Often, multiple factors contribute to maternal death. Preeclampsia, for example, increases the chances of haemorrhage and other severe complications”, says Dr Jenny Cresswell a scientist at WHO and co-author of the study.

The WHO study is a wake-up call for governments, healthcare, organisations, and policymakers to prioritise maternal health as a global emergency in response WHO and its partners have launched a roadmap for postpartum haemorrhage to address the leading cause of maternal deaths. Additionally, the World Health Assembly has committed to strengthening multi-maternal healthcare services worldwide.

This World Health Day 2025 will focus on maternal and newborn health, urging countries to intensify efforts in preventing avoidable maternal deaths, ensuring that every woman has access to evidence-based maternal care.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.