Nigeria, April 19 -- Motherhood should signify new beginnings, not a life-threatening experience. Yet, for millions of women around the world, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, pregnancy and childbirth continue to be fraught with danger.

Inadequate access to quality healthcare, a shortage of skilled birth attendants, poor infrastructure, and systemic failures have turned what should be a time of hope into a life-threatening experience.

Nigeria has one of the highest burdens of maternal and newborn mortality. Every day, women and infants die from preventable causes-deaths that reflect deep-rooted inequities in the healthcare system. PREMIUM TIMES takes a closer look at the state of maternal and newborn health in Nigeria....