Maternal mortality is a complex issue and remains a serious public health problem. This paper aims to look at this phenomenon from the perspective of the right to health, noting that the option for bringing the discussion to the field of human rights provided an extension of its explanation and a clearer presentation to society. It presents brief history of the insertion of this theme in the global policy agenda, exploring national and international initiatives. The current situation of maternal mortality in Brazil is just the most visible face of the precariousness of the health care of women. The situation worsens when cases of severe maternal morbidity are considered, which affects a significant number of women. Despite the initiatives for the realization of the right to safe motherhood, there are few advances, and society must require the State to reverse the injustice against women.
maternal mortality; severe maternal morbidity; human rights