Yucatán Peninsula maternal mortality rises in 2026

Maternal mortality in the Yucatán Peninsula has seen a significant increase, with reports indicating a 66% rise in deaths related to pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period during 2026. According to the Federal Government's Secretariat of Health, 15 to 16 deaths have been recorded in the region so far this year.

Quintana Roo has recorded the highest number of fatalities in the peninsula with eight deaths, representing approximately 53.3% of the regional total. The maternal mortality ratio in Quintana Roo stands at 32.9 per 100,000 live births, the highest in the region and the sixth highest in Mexico. Yucatán has recorded six deaths, with a ratio of 24.4 per 100,000 live births. Campeche has reported one to two deaths, with a ratio of 21.4 per 100,000 live births.

Primary causes of death include obstetric hemorrhages and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia. While the regional figures show an upward trend, the national maternal mortality ratio in Mexico has decreased by approximately 9.3% to 10.4% compared to the same period in 2025, totaling 343 deaths nationwide through week 40.