More on Maternal Mortality: The Leading Causes

The United States holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest maternal mortality rates among high-income countries.¹ As per the CDC’s criteria, maternal mortality is characterized by a fatality occurring during pregnancy or within one year after the conclusion of pregnancy due to the physiological effects of childbirth.² In fact, 80% of maternal deaths in recent years were deemed as preventable.³ Keep reading to learn more about the leading causes of maternal mortality.

Leading Causes

1. Hemorrhage — Hemorrhage can be defined as severe bleeding which can occur after birth. In some cases, excessive blood loss may call for a blood transfusion. Risk factors may include multiple pregnancies (twins/triplets/etc.) and delivery beyond the expected due date. However, this can happen among women without risk factors. Your provider may prescribe medications prior to delivery if they believe a patient is high risk. 
   
2. Hypertensive disorders — Hypertensive conditions or abnormal blood pressure levels can increase a patient’s risk of maternal mortality. Two common hypertensive conditions include  preeclampsia and eclampsia. Hallmarks of preeclampsia may include swelling of the face and hands, persistent headache, and changes in vision. More severe symptoms may develop which may include high blood pressure and changes in kidney or liver function. When preeclampsia progresses and leads to seizures, it is referred to as eclampsia. These conditions must be managed closely under a provider alongside lifestyle changes such as monitoring diet and incorporating exercise.
   
3. Infections — Infections are one of the leading causes of maternal death worldwide. Infection is a complication that may arise in different scenarios, from cesarean sections (C-section) to abortion procedures. Infections can lead to sepsis, which is an immune system response to the infection that can lead to organ failure and ultimately death. 
   
4. Mental Health Disorders — Mood disorders, specifically postpartum depression (PPD), accounts for at least 20% of maternal deaths.⁴ Like other common depressive disorders, symptoms of PPD may include sadness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and thoughts of self-harm.  Those with mood disorders prior to pregnancy may be at higher risk for PPD. Research suggests having a healthy sleep schedule may help to alleviate depressive symptoms.

1. Munira Z. Gunja, Evan D. Gumas, and Reginald D. Williams II, “The U.S. Maternal Mortality Crisis Continues to Worsen: An International Comparison,” To the Point (blog), Commonwealth Fund, Dec. 1, 2022. https://doi.org/10.26099/8vem-fc65
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preventing Pregnancy-Related Deaths. Published September 26, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternal-mortality/preventing-pregnancy-related-deaths.html
3. Pregnancy-Related Deaths: Data from Maternal Mortality Review Committees in 36 US States, 2017–2019 | CDC. Published September 26, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternal-mortality/erase-mm/data-mmrc.html
4. Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression: Mood Disorders and Pregnancy. Published July 25, 2023. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/postpartum-mood-disorders-what-new-moms-need-to-know
   

Pregnancy is not a disease, but is one of life’s most unique and natural processes. At Trust Women’s Healthcare we specialize in counseling high risk pregnancies. Do not delay your support, schedule an appointment today.