Maternal mortality refers to the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, due to complications related to the pregnancy or its management. It is a critical indicator of the quality of healthcare systems and the overall health of women in a society. High maternal mortality rates often reflect inadequate access to healthcare, poor nutrition, and lack of education. Efforts to reduce maternal mortality focus on improving healthcare access, enhancing prenatal care, and ensuring skilled attendance during childbirth. Organizations like World Health Organization and UNICEF work globally to address these issues and promote safe motherhood initiatives.