Inequities are not inevitable: tackling them can reduce maternal deaths

Abstract

The latest MBRRACE-UK report on maternal mortality highlights action needed to prevent maternal deaths and reduce underlying inequities—especially for women who are migrants or known to social care, writes Kirsty Kitchen This year’s annual confidential inquiry on maternal deaths–MBRRACE saving lives, improving mothers’ care 2024–finds evidence of high levels of inequality and little progress.1 Many trajectories have worsened. The maternal death rate is at its highest level for almost 20 years and inequities for race and deprivation are enduring or widening. We cannot reverse these trends without tackling the structural issues and social determinants at play. For the fifth year running, the number of women who died while known to social services has risen, now standing at 22% of the deaths reported. Maternal suicide remains the leading direct cause of death between six weeks and a year after giving birth. Past MBRRACE reports have highlighted that a large proportion of the women who died by suicide or because of substance use were at risk of having their baby removed from their care. Birth Companions has been campaigning for improvements in the care of women …