Adapted from: WaterAid & Evidence for Action. (2015). WaterAid MamaYe Clean Birth, Safe Birth Infographic. London: WaterAid & Evidence for Action.
This past Saturday was Global Handwashing Day, an event dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of handwashing for preventing diseases and saving lives. One of the Sustainable Development Goals is to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, reflecting the growing prioritization of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). The implications of WASH for the health of mothers around the world are enormous: approximately 10-15% of global maternal deaths are due to infection caused by poor hygiene practices. WASH plays a critical role in improving maternal health outcomes during pregnancy, delivery and postpartum.
Learn about the WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist, which includes handwashing as a strategy for preventing life-threatening maternal health complications.
Are you working on a maternal health project focused on water, sanitation & hygiene? We want to hear from you!