Iowa State Report Finds Majority of Maternal Deaths were Preventable

A new Iowa report reveals that 95% of pregnancy-related deaths from 2019–2021 were preventable, underscoring urgent public health concerns. The state's Maternal Mortality Review Committee found most deaths were due to infection, hemorrhage, or embolism, with disproportionate impacts on Black and Hispanic women and those on Medicaid—especially postpartum.

Experts cite COVID-19 and high rates of chronic conditions as contributing factors. These findings emphasize the vital role of state review committees in identifying systemic gaps and driving reforms. Recommendations include expanding mental health screening, improving emergency care readiness, and addressing provider bias to align with national maternal health standards and save lives. Read more from IPR here.