Zero maternal deaths

From conception to delivery, the health of mothers is as important as that of their babies; pregnant women face risks that can be fatal to both themselves and their infants. The main causes of maternal death in Latin America and the Caribbean are: hypertension induced by delivery 23%, hemorrhage (bleeding) 22%, and abortion complications 8%. Of every 5 maternal deaths, one or more are due to hemorrhage; mothers with multiple pregnancies, previous cesarean sections, birth trauma, or women older than 35 years are more prone to postpartum hemorrhage.

Almost all maternal deaths are preventable, which is why the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and the Latin American Center for Perinatology/Women's Health and Reproductive Health (CLAP/SMR) have carried out the "Zero Maternal Deaths" project in order to reduce a large number of obstetric deaths as the leading cause of maternal deaths.

This project seeks to save the lives of mothers and prevent the consequences of their loss for families and the development of countries. Therefore, health services were strengthened by removing access filters and providing training to staff to manage an obstetric hemorrhage, the availability of blood for transfusions, and access to medicines at the time of delivery. The "Zero Death from Hemorrhage" project seeks to empower women, so they are aware of their rights, idiosyncrasy, and that they are not ashamed to seek qualified medical assistance. It also looks to promote family planning actions, ensure the newborn, to have an adequate cutting of the umbilical cord three minutes after birth, and promote breastfeeding.

Source: WHO. (2021). Cero Muertes Maternas - PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization. Report: https://www.paho.org/es/cero-muertes-maternas