Maternal health refers to the physical, mental and emotional well-being of women during preconception, pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. Ensuring safe and high-quality care across this continuum is essential to improving outcomes for women and their babies.  

Despite advances in maternal health, the World Health Organization reported approximately 92% of all maternal deaths occurred in low- and lower-middle income countries in 2023. Many of these deaths are preventable and are driven by inequities in access to quality care, delayed diagnosis, gaps in postpartum support, and underlying chronic conditions.  

Maternal health risks do not end at delivery. Complications including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes and other conditions that have lasting effects on a woman’s long-term health.   

There is a critical need for coordinated woman-centered approaches that prioritize early risk identification, continuity of care, and culturally responsive support throughout the maternal journey. PWW is committed to advancing policies, partnerships, and awareness efforts that strengthen maternal health systems, improve equity in care, and ensure every woman has the opportunity for a safe and healthy pregnancy and postpartum experience.