Every year more than 500,000 women die from complications of pregnancy and childbirth. In some parts of the world, expectant mothers are almost as likely to die in childbirth as they are to live.
One of the growing challenges is prevalence of HIV in pregnant women. The vast majority of pregnant women infected with HIV live in sub-Saharan Africa. In recent years, infant mortality rates have multiplied on the continent.
The target of Goal Five is to reduce the maternal mortality ratio by three quarters.
Making It Real
ERD is working to reduce maternal mortality and protect newborns from acquiring HIV. The Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission Project will reduce mother-to-children HIV transmission by up to 40% among women treated. The program works in partnership with the Zambian Anglican Council and is support by a grant from the MAC AIDS Fund.
Women with HIV face higher risks of difficult pregnancies and the possibility of transmitting the virus to newborns. Close to 40% of HIV-positive pregnant women pass the disease on to their newborns, either during pregnancy, childbirth or often through breastfeeding. As long as the mother remains healthy and does not have advanced HIV, the placenta usually protects the fetus from infection. Unfortunately, the chances of contracting the virus are highest if the fetus or newborn are exposed to HIV-infected blood and fluids. Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is working closely with our partners to launch a pilot program in Zambia to lower the rate of HIV infection in women, reduce transmission of the virus from mother to child, and provide critical care for parents and families affected by the disease. elief and Development is one organization that is protecting the health of mothers and babies. For example, ERD's program in Haiti sends health workers to communities to educate women about nutrition, breastfeeding, and hygiene.
What You Can Do: GIVE.
Give a donation to prenatal and postnatal care programs. When more health posts are in place, babies will be more likely to survive past infancy, and mothers will be more likely to survive to raise them.
For Further Consideration
- Email this article about universal maternal care to a friend. Ask him or her to join you in making a contribution to support medical care for moms and their babies.
- Click here to learn more about Maternal Health, and how you can help reduce the maternal mortality rate.
Go on to Goal 6 >>
