By Bunmi Yekini
A new study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia, are the leading causes of maternal deaths worldwide. The study, published in The Lancet Global Health, found that in 2020 alone, these conditions were responsible for approximately 80,000 and 50,000 deaths, respectively.
“Understanding why pregnant women and mothers are dying is critical for tackling the world’s lingering maternal mortality crisis,” said Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research at WHO. “This is also a massive equity issue globally—women everywhere need high quality, evidence-based health care before, during and after delivery.”
The report highlights that haemorrhage, which often occurs during or after childbirth, accounted for nearly a third (27%) of maternal deaths, while hypertensive disorders, including preeclampsia, contributed to 16%. Other causes include sepsis, embolism, complications from unsafe abortions, and injuries sustained during childbirth.
“Often not just one but many interrelated factors contribute to a woman dying during or after pregnancy,” said Dr. Jenny Cresswell, a WHO scientist and an author of the study. “A more holistic approach to maternal health has been proven to give women the best chance of a healthy pregnancy and birth.”
The WHO report emphasizes the need for improved antenatal care, emergency obstetric services, and postnatal support, particularly in low-income countries, where many women still lack access to essential health checks. WHO has also called for more data collection on maternal suicide and late maternal deaths, which remain largely underreported.
To address these challenges, WHO and its partners launched a global Roadmap for Postpartum Haemorrhage in 2024, and the World Health Assembly has committed to strengthening maternal healthcare worldwide. In 2025, World Health Day will focus on maternal and newborn health, aiming to intensify global efforts to ensure better access to life-saving care for women and babies, especially in low-resource and crisis-affected regions.