One-third of all maternal deaths can be traced to high blood pressure in pregnancy and in the weeks after giving birth. Yet many women don’t know how dangerous high blood pressure can be. And they may not realize they are at risk for many life-threatening conditions such as pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Because high blood pressure can be asymptomatic, women with hypertension may not feel unwell or even know that their health is compromised.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a non-communicable disease that affects maternal health. MS is an unpredictable chronic disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. The progress of this disease, its severity, and specific symptoms cannot yet be predicted and varies by individual. Symptoms may disappear or diminish completely, or they may persist and worsen over time. Typical symptoms include fatigue, numbness and tingling, blurred vision, imbalance, pain, and problems with memory and concentration.

Every day there are more than 800 maternal deaths worldwide. Who are these women? They are reproductive women across the globe. They are our sisters, aunts, friends, and co-workers. They are leaders in our community, family members, and caregivers. When assessing the state of maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States, one must consider not only what we know, but also what must change.