A new CDC-backed study reveals that nearly one-third of maternal deaths in the U.S. now occur more than six weeks after childbirth—a period often overlooked in postpartum care. Between 2018 and 2022, maternal deaths rose by 28%, with late maternal deaths driving the sharpest increase.
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause, but mental and behavioral disorders—including substance use—accounted for over 21% of late maternal deaths. Researchers warn that these deaths reflect a dangerous gap between obstetric care and the transition to primary care. “Measuring the rate of late maternal death is essential… to identify opportunities to prevent avoidable pregnancy-related deaths and reduce disparities,” the study notes.
The disparities are stark. American Indian and Alaska Native women had the highest maternal mortality rate at 106.3 deaths per 100,000 live births, followed by non-Hispanic Black women at 76.9. Non-Hispanic Asian women had the lowest rate at 21.8. Geographically, Alabama reported the highest rate, while California had the lowest.
Medicaid, which covers nearly half of all U.S. births, historically provided only 60 days of postpartum coverage. Recent efforts to extend coverage to a full year show promise, but proposed federal cuts threaten progress.
Researchers estimate that if every state matched California’s rate, 2,679 maternal deaths could have been prevented. The findings underscore the need to treat postpartum health as a long-term priority—especially for communities facing the highest risks.
See: “30% of Maternal Deaths Happen After Six Weeks, Study Says” (April 14, 2025)
