Target 6: Reduce by three quarters, between 1990 and 2015, the maternal mortality ratio
Prospects and Progress
Around 500,000 women in developing countries die each year from complications in pregnancy and childbirth. And for every woman who dies, there are approximately 20 more who are seriously injured or disabled. Most regions saw an increase in the number of women receiving assistance in childbirth from a skilled assistant (nurse, doctor or midwife), The proportion of assisted births in South-East Asia rose from 34% in 1990 to 64% in 2003. However, there was very little progress in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Progress is certainly possible. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka reduced maternal mortality ratios through increased use of midwives and community health workers, as well as improved infrastructure, such as transport to clinics. And in only eight years, Egypt was able to cut the maternal mortality in half, through a comprehensive boost to quality of medical care and community support for women in pregnancy and childbirth.
