Gender inequity in postpartum hemorrhage: A public health issue

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a leading cause of maternal mortality globally, disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), highlighting the deep-rooted gender related inequities in healthcare access, quality, and outcomes. Despite being largely preventable and treatable, PPH continues to claim the lives of thousands of women annually, because of systemic failures, including inadequate maternal health infrastructure, under-resourced healthcare systems, and sociocultural norms that devalue women's health. Gender inequity is manifested in delayed care-seeking, a lack of decision-making autonomy, limited access to skilled birth attendants, and emergency obstetric care. Moreover, implicit biases and structural discrimination often limit investment in women-centered health interventions. This issue is compounded by socioeconomic disparities, educational gaps, and the underrepresentation of women's health priorities in policy and research agendas. Addressing PPH through a gender-equity lens is imperative to improve maternal health outcomes and achieve global health equity. This paper underscores the urgent need for integrated, gender-sensitive public health strategies to mitigate the burden of PPH and protect the rights and lives of women.