Mothers deserve better: evidence-based strategies to address maternal mortality

In 2023, an estimated 712 women died each day due to complications during and after pregnancy and childbirth, totalling approximately 260 000 maternal deaths over the year.1 70% of maternal mortality occurred in sub-Saharan Africa.1 These deaths were largely due to direct causes, including postpartum haemorrhage, hypertensive disorders, unsafe abortion, and sepsis,2 which can be prevented or treated.