Maternal Mortality
SDG Target 3.1
Reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births.
Global Progress and Projections for Maternal Mortality
Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births
Show a Region or Country
Legend
2030 target
Historical average
Better
Reference
Worse
Globally we do see a change in the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) in 2021 to 158.8 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to 157.1 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2020. The trajectory projects 140.9 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2030, which is double the SDG target. However, there are likely subnational variations in MMR in larger countries, highlighting the need for continued focus on ensuring equitable access to high-quality care and lifesaving interventions during pregnancy and childbirth, as well as the need to address underlying causes of MMR. In addition, we recognize that national MMR estimates are unreliable, data is of poor quality, and there is a need for additional investment in improving MMR estimation.
Interact with the Data
Below you can view comparisons of the historical progress for this indicator across any region or country in the world. Drag the slider to see the data from any year, and add up to three other locations to see how they compare to the global progress. Download any chart you create.
Historical Progress for Maternal Mortality
Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births
Add up to 3 Regions or Countries
Legend
2030 target
Global