Dear friends,

From Haiti to Pakistan, mothers are at the foundation of a nation’s health. This is more than lofty sentiment; it is a fact that bears out every day in the 26 low-resource countries where MCSP works. At the core is the incredible link between a mother’s survival and the health of her children.

Yet, as we acknowledge the enormous role mothers play in families and communities, are we honoring them with the care they deserve?

Every day, approximately 830 women die needlessly in pregnancy and childbirth from preventable causes, nearly all of them in developing countries. These women don’t die because effective interventions don’t exist; they die because these interventions don't reach them.

We know that skilled care – before during and after childbirth – saves maternal and newborn lives. Despite this, millions of women will give birth this year without trained assistance, many of them entirely alone.

As we gear up for the 31^st International Confederation of Midwives conference, we’re remembering those who care for mothers, too! International Day of the Midwife reminded us of the critical work midwives do to keep our mothers, sisters, daughters and wives healthy. Supporting these caregivers – who face challenges of resources, security and recognition – helps to ensure healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries for their patients.

We know when midwives provide, mothers and babies thrive!

Koki Agarwal, MD, MPH, DrPH
Director