Maternal death rate in UK Rose 20%
- The rate of women dying during or shortly after pregnancy in the United kingdom increased by 20% between 2009-2011 and 2022-2024, according to data from MBRRACE-UK, a research...
- In 2015, then-Secretary of State for Health Jeremy hunt pledged to reduce maternal deaths by 50% by 2030, aiming to make the national health service (NHS) "one of...
- Though, data from MBRRACE-UK demonstrates that maternal mortality rates increased during the Conservative government's 14 years in power.
UK Maternal Mortality Rate Rose 20% Despite Government Pledges
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The rate of women dying during or shortly after pregnancy in the United kingdom increased by 20% between 2009-2011 and 2022-2024, according to data from MBRRACE-UK, a research project led by the University of oxford. This rise occurred despite government commitments to reduce maternal deaths.
Government targets and Initial Promises
In 2015, then-Secretary of State for Health Jeremy hunt pledged to reduce maternal deaths by 50% by 2030, aiming to make the national health service (NHS) “one of the safest places in the world to have a baby.” This target was later accelerated to 2025 in 2017.
Data Reveals Increasing Mortality
Though, data from MBRRACE-UK demonstrates that maternal mortality rates increased during the Conservative government’s 14 years in power. The rate of direct maternal deaths-those linked directly to pregnancy complications such as bleeding and blood clots-saw the most critically important increase.
Breakdown of Mortality Rates
- Overall Increase: A 20% rise in maternal mortality between 2009-2011 and 2022-2024.
- Indirect Deaths: Indirect maternal deaths, caused by pre-existing conditions worsened by pregnancy, increased by 3% over the 15-year period.
Health leaders and campaigners have described the increase as “an absolute tragedy” and a sign that significant issues exist within the UK’s maternity care system.