The key drivers for maternal mortality are post-partum haemorrhage, pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, and unsafe abortion — all of which are preventable and treatable. The right to health — including reproductive health and emergency treatment — is guaranteed by the Constitution. STIGMAIn September 2012, the Health ministry published “Standards and Guidelines for Reducing Morbidity and Mortality from Unsafe Abortion in Kenya”. In December 2013, the Director of Medical Services withdrew the standards and guidelines in unclear circumstances, causing confusion on when health providers can offer safe abortion services within the law. However, without a holistic approach to combating maternal mortality, which includes abolishing abortion stigma.

Source: Daily Nation March 11, 2019 18:56 UTC