An Editorial introducing the Women Deliver special issue of The Lancet concludes that the critical moment to put right the horrendous historical neglect of maternal mortality has arrived.

It explains that two decades ago "The Safe Motherhood Initiative was launched by WHO (World Health Organization) and others to help reduce the severe global burden of pregnancy-related illness and death. Sadly, today, most of that burden remains unchanged."

Assembling the themes in the papers in this special issue, the article says a new wave of 21st century activism to throw a bright light on the low status of women is needed.

"The need is known as is the knowledge to fix it. More money exists than ever, and a range of existing global initiatives has yielded useful experiences and lessons. There can be no more excuses and no further delay. Women's rights are worth fighting for; their lives can and must be saved," it concludes.

Maternal mortality is defined as the death of a woman during pregnancy or in the 42 days following birth due to causes directly or indirectly associated with the pregnancy.

The Women Deliver Conference - October 18-20

The maternal health of women is crucial for families to survive, for economies to thrive, and cuts to the very heart of our society. The aim of The Women Deliver Conference is to focus global attention on the investment needed to save the lives and improve the health of women, mothers and newborns globally.

These issues, as well as pregnancy complications and induced abortion rates are all discussed in depth at the Women Deliver special issue of The Lancet.

www.thelancet