Maternal deaths in the U.S. increased slightly last year, reversing a trend of decline observed over the previous two years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 688 maternal deaths in 2023, up from 669 the previous year, but still lower than the peak during the COVID-19 pandemic. The maternal mortality rate rose to 19 deaths per 100,000 live births, with leading causes being excessive bleeding, blood vessel blockages, and infections. The decline in COVID-19 cases initially contributed to the reduction in deaths, but recent increases are attributed to factors like rural hospital closures and legal changes affecting abortion rights. The U.S. continues to have one of the highest maternal mortality rates among wealthy nations, with significant racial disparities, particularly affecting Black women.

Provisional data from the CDC shows that U.S. maternal deaths increased to 688 in 2023, up from 669 in 2022, reversing a two-year decline following the peak during the pandemic.

The maternal mortality rate in the U.S. rose to 19 deaths per 100,000 live births, with common causes including excessive bleeding, blood vessel blockages, and infections.

COVID-19 significantly impacted maternal mortality rates, as the virus posed particular dangers to pregnant women, and the pandemic's pressure on healthcare systems may have led to neglected care.

The post-pandemic reduction in maternal deaths was partially offset by factors like the closure of rural hospitals and legal constraints on abortion, affecting medical care during pregnancy-related emergencies.

The U.S. remains one of the highest maternal mortality rates among affluent nations, with longstanding racial disparities highlighting that Black women face a higher risk of dying from pregnancy-related causes.

Legal changes, such as the Supreme Court decision affecting abortion rights, have contributed to physicians feeling restricted in offering necessary care, potentially impacting maternal health outcomes.

Support for the Associated Press Health and Science Department is derived from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, although the AP maintains content responsibility.