Psychosocial impact of maternal mortality on bereaved families and health care providers: what do we know?

INTRODUCTION

Maternal mortality remains a critical global health issue with profound psychosocial consequences that extend beyond the deceased woman to her family and the healthcare professionals (HCP) involved in her care. While substantial progress has been made in reducing maternal mortality worldwide, its social and psychological sequelae remain insufficiently studied, particularly in high-income countries.

METHODS

This narrative review is based on a structured literature search conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar for studies published between 2000 and 2025. Study selection was guided by predefined inclusion criteria, and relevant articles were identified through keyword searches and snowballing. Data were extracted and analyzed using a narrative thematic approach focusing on psychosocial outcomes in families and HCP.

RESULTS

The available evidence, predominantly derived from qualitative and mixed-methods studies in low- and middle-income countries-especially sub-Saharan Africa-demonstrates consistent patterns of psychological distress, social disruption, and long-term adverse outcomes among affected families. Children are particularly vulnerable to educational, emotional, and economic disadvantages following maternal death. For HCP, particularly midwives, maternal mortality is associated with significant emotional burden, including guilt, grief, and professional self-doubt, as well as social and occupational consequences.

DISCUSSION: Despite the global relevance of maternal mortality, there is a marked lack of data from high-income settings. Existing findings suggest that both families and HCP experience substantial and enduring psychosocial impacts, yet structured institutional support systems are often lacking.

CONCLUSION

Maternal mortality has far-reaching psychosocial consequences for families and HCP alike. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted support interventions, structured training, and further research, particularly in high-income countries, to better understand and mitigate these effects.