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More than 80% were preventable.

CDC’s review of pregnancy-related deaths in 36 states during 2017–2019 found that more than 80% were preventable. This is not a 2024 estimate, an infant-death statistic, or the same measure as the 42-day maternal mortality rate above.

Pregnancy-related deaths include those during pregnancy and up to one year afterward. Leading causes in that review included mental health conditions, heavy bleeding, heart conditions, infection, blood clots and high blood pressure disorders.

Preventable means there was at least some chance of avoiding a death through reasonable changes in care, health systems, communities or other circumstances. It does not mean a family was at fault.

Listening to concerns, timely treatment, mental health care and reliable access to prenatal and postpartum care can help. Doulas support families but do not replace medical care or guarantee an outcome.

What the Indiana data tell us.

Indiana’s 2024 report groups infant deaths into perinatal risks, congenital anomalies, sudden unexpected infant deaths, assaults or injuries, and other causes. Perinatal risks involve conditions around pregnancy and birth.

The state highlights early prenatal care, support for infant feeding, smoke-free environments and safe sleep among prevention priorities. Families also need access to timely, appropriate medical care.

The maternal “more than 80% preventable” finding cannot be applied to these infant deaths. No infant-death preventability percentage is claimed here.

Different causes need different responses.

The five leading U.S. causes in the 2024 report were birth defects, short gestation and low birth weight, sudden infant death syndrome, unintentional injuries, and maternal pregnancy complications.

Not every infant death can be prevented. These population data do not explain an individual loss and should never be used to blame a parent. The maternal preventability percentage does not apply here.

Talk with your baby’s clinician about feeding, safe sleep, development and any concerns. The Foundation’s resource guide can help you find practical support.

Born before 37 completed weeks.

Preterm birth can affect breathing, feeding and development. Causes are not always known. Risk factors include a previous preterm birth, multiple pregnancy, infection and high blood pressure. A risk factor does not mean a preterm birth is inevitable.

Early and ongoing prenatal care can help identify concerns. If you think you are in labor before 37 weeks, seek medical care right away. Some early deliveries are medically necessary to protect a parent or baby.

This is a birth-rate statistic, not a death rate. No “80% preventable” claim applies to preterm births.