Women almost 150 times more likely to die from maternal sepsis in Africa than Europe

Women who develop maternal sepsis in sub-Saharan Africa are almost 150 times more likely to die than mothers in Britain, Europe and North America, according to new research – with a lack of clean water and sanitation contributing to 36 deaths a day.

The analysis by WaterAid finds that the infection – one of the most dangerous complications of pregnancy and childbirth – is vastly more lethal in parts of Africa where maternity wards frequently lack clean water, toilets or basic hygiene facilities. These dangers made worse by devastating overseas aid cuts by the US and UK impacting swathes of the continent.

Across sub-Saharan Africa, an estimated 4.7 million women develop maternal sepsis each year, equivalent to around one in every nine births. 

Globally, about one in 1,100 cases of maternal sepsis results in death. In Africa, however, the fatality rate is dramatically higher with one death for every 350 cases. By comparison, mothers in Western Europe and North America face a vastly lower risk.

Health experts say the disparity reflects the stark reality of maternity wards where even the most basic elements of safe childbirth are missing. WaterAid’s research suggests that three out of four births in healthcare facilities in sub-Saharan Africa take place in environments without adequate water, sanitation or hygiene - conditions that dramatically increase the risk of infection for both mothers and newborns.

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Source: The Independent, 18 March 2026