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.
The target of Goal Five is to reduce the maternal mortality ratio by three quarters.
Making It Real
Episcopal Relief 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.
Malnutrition is the leading cause of death for children under four years old in Haiti. ERD is organizing small groups of mothers so they can learn how to care for themselves and their children. The women learn to prepare healthy meals, practice proper sanitation, and prevent life-threatening illnesses.
In Nan Jardin, Haiti, Eve brought her 21-month old baby, Evena, to the sessions. “Since I’ve been in the program,” she said, “I’ve learned about vitamins and how to add food to bean sauce to make balanced meals for my daughter.”
What You Can Do: GIVE.
Give part of your 0.7% 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 BBC news article about universal maternal care to a friend. Ask him or her to join you in contributing 0.7% of your annual income 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 >>
