Pregnancy is an incredible journey filled with joy, anticipation, and new beginnings. However, it is not without risks.

Maternal mortality, defined as the death of a woman during pregnancy or within 42 days of termination, remains a significant global health concern. Despite advancements in medical science and improved healthcare facilities, many women continue to succumb to pregnancy-related complications.

Understanding the risk factors associated with maternal mortality is crucial in order to develop effective strategies for prevention and early intervention.

1. Age

Maternal age is a crucial factor influencing the risk of maternal mortality. Teenage pregnancies and pregnancies in women above the age of 35 are associated with increased complications.

Teenage mothers often lack access to prenatal care, have limited knowledge about nutrition, and may face social and economic challenges. Older women, on the other hand, may experience age-related health issues like hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases, which can adversely impact pregnancy outcomes.

2. Socioeconomic Status

Socioeconomic status plays a significant role in determining the risk of maternal mortality. Women from lower income groups often face challenges in accessing quality healthcare services, including antenatal care.

They may also lack proper nutrition and live in environments with inadequate sanitation, which increases their vulnerability to infections and pregnancy complications.

3. Lack of Access to Quality Healthcare

In many parts of the world, especially in rural or remote areas, pregnant women often lack access to quality healthcare services.

Limited availability of skilled healthcare professionals, inadequate transportation facilities, and long distances to medical facilities contribute to delayed or inadequate care during pregnancy and childbirth. This increases the risk of complications and maternal mortality.

4. Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Women with pre-existing medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders are at higher risk of maternal mortality.

Pregnancy can exacerbate these conditions, leading to complications that can be life-threatening if not properly managed. It is essential for women with pre-existing conditions to receive appropriate medical care and monitoring throughout their pregnancy to mitigate these risks.

5. Lack of Antenatal Care

Regular antenatal care is crucial for monitoring the health and wellbeing of both the mother and the growing fetus. Women who do not receive adequate antenatal care are at higher risk of complications going unnoticed or being inadequately managed.

Routine check-ups enable early identification of potential issues and allow for prompt intervention, reducing the risk of maternal mortality.

6. Multiple Pregnancies

Women carrying multiple fetuses, such as twins or triplets, face a higher risk of complications during pregnancy.

Multiple pregnancies put additional strain on the mother’s body, increasing the likelihood of gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, premature birth, or placental abnormalities. These complications can result in maternal mortality if not closely monitored and managed by healthcare professionals.

7. Lack of Family Planning and Unintended Pregnancies

Unintended pregnancies are associated with higher risks of maternal mortality. Women who do not have access to safe and effective family planning methods may undergo unsafe abortions or have pregnancies they are not prepared for.

These situations can lead to increased maternal mortality due to unsafe abortion practices or inadequate prenatal care.

8. Geographical Location

Geographical location and the associated access to healthcare services greatly impact maternal mortality rates.

Developing countries, particularly those facing political conflicts or humanitarian crises, often lack the infrastructure and resources necessary to provide adequate maternal healthcare. This leads to higher rates of maternal mortality compared to more developed regions with better healthcare systems.

9. Inadequate Blood Transfusions

In cases of severe bleeding during childbirth or complications like maternal hemorrhage, timely access to blood transfusions can be lifesaving.

However, in many parts of the world, blood transfusion services are inadequate or inaccessible, leading to delayed or inadequate treatment. This increases the risk of maternal mortality, especially in cases where immediate intervention is essential to save the mother’s life.

Cultural and social factors can influence maternal mortality rates by shaping attitudes and behaviors related to pregnancy, healthcare-seeking, and decision-making.

Societies with restrictive gender norms, limited autonomy for women, and inadequate reproductive health education may result in delayed or inadequate access to care. These factors can contribute to higher maternal mortality rates.