ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the geography of maternal mortality in Nigeria. It uses a vulnerability theoretical framework and argues that adverse life situations such as maternal death do not affect populations uniformly, but vary with social and economic factors in place of residence. The status of a woman in society is a critical determinant of maternal mortality. In Nigeria's patriarchal society, where decisions about reproduction, family finances and education are made by men and early marriage and childbirth are encouraged, maternal mortality is high. Prenatal care is critically important for healthy pregnancy outcomes, but not readily available for those who need it most in Nigeria. The chapter also provides education on proper maternal nutrition, treatment for infections and testing for HIV/AIDS. Maternal mortality in Nigeria is highly concentrated in the North West and North Eastern regions of the country, although, smaller pockets of high maternal deaths occur in the rural south and some major urban areas such as Lagos and Rivers State.
