UN study reveals alarming lack of progress in reducing maternal and newborn deaths, while simple measures could save millions.

Global progress in reducing deaths of pregnant women, mothers and babies has flatlined for eight years due to decreasing investments in maternal and newborn health, according to a new report from the United Nations (UN). The COVID-19 pandemic, rising poverty, and worsening humanitarian crises have intensified pressures on stretched health systems. Funding shortfalls and underinvestment in primary healthcare can devastate survival prospects. To increase survival rates, women and babies must have quality, affordable healthcare before, during and after childbirth, the agencies say, as well as access to family planning services.