Globally, a woman dies every minute from complications related to childbirth.
About half a million women die each year due to maternal causes with 70 per cent of the deaths taking place in developing countries.
The challenge of reducing maternal mortality remains a major problem.
Kenya Demographic and Health Survey estimated the mortality ratio at 444 per 100,000 live births.
Other estimates put the ratio at 1,000 per 100,000 live births, representing one in 25-lifetime risk of dying from maternal-related causes.
The use of community health services is an effective approach to reducing the risk of maternal morbidity and mortality, especially in places where the general health status of women is poor.
Attending antenatal clinics on time and delivery in health facilities can reduce maternal mortality through early detection and management of complications.
Maternal mortality is defined as the death of a woman while pregnant or within 42days after birth, from any cause related to pregnancy.
The most common direct cause of maternal injury and death are excessive blood loss, infection, high blood pressure, unsafe abortion and obstructed labour and indirect causes such as anaemia and heart diseases.
Most maternal deaths are preventable with high timely management and a good link between healthcare workers and the community.
Ending and preventing maternal deaths must remain at the top global agenda.
At the same time, it is important to expand efforts to reduce maternal injuries and disabilities to promote health and well-being.
Addressing inequalities that affect health outcomes, especially sexual and reproductive health, is fundamental to ensuring all women have access to respectful quality and affordable maternity services.
The government should invest more in primary-level facilities that are deploying health care providers with different carders.
The facilities should also be equipped to strengthen referral systems since they interact directly with the community to strengthen referrals will reduce risks and deaths during the delivery stage.
Executive Director Epic Youth Organization
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
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