The effect of maternal–newborn ill-health on households: economic vulnerability and social implications

Overview

This is the first paper in a six-paper series entitled “Moving towards universal coverage”. Through a critical review of the evidence base, this paper seeks to answer questions such as: Does a high burden of maternal–newborn ill-health generate additional risk and uncertainty for individuals, families, and households? Are there gender differences of relevance? To what extent may a high burden influence long-term investment decisions by the household or individual?