Pregnancy related maternal mortality defines the state of maternal health. The increasing incidence of maternal death in the U.S indicates that this complex issue is not unique only to developing countries. It is obvious that improvements are needed to reinsure appropriate healthcare for all pregnant women. Without precise methodical data collection and data evaluation advancement of this important determinant of maternal health can’t be achieved. The aim of this paper is to provide contemporary perspective on pregnancy related maternal mortality. In addition, this paper will discuss common ethnical disparities that underline maternal deaths. Furthermore, this paper will address the confusing inconsistencies of maternal death terminology and variations in disease classification. Finally, this paper will propose improvements in defining terminology and data collection that influence the understanding of pregnancy related morbidity. Quick Points 1. Maternal mortality is a determining characteristic of existing maternal health in a given geographical region. 2. While it is impossible to completely eliminate all maternal deaths, preventable pregnancy complications resulting in injury or death need to be reduced across the world. 3. Healthcare leaders need to work on identification of maternal mortality trends and development of strategies to sustainably improve rates of maternal mortality.

Department of Epidemiology Faculty of Health Sciences Hradec Kralove University of Defence Czech Republic

Emory University Hospital Midtown Maternity Centre 550 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta GA 303 08 USA

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