The death of Izanami, an ancient Japanese goddess: an early report of a case of puerperal fever.

Even in the 21st Century, approximately 60,0000 women die of pregnancy-related causes each year. WHO reported that 98% of these deaths occur in developing countries; the largest gap between rich and poor nations was evident in the maternal mortality levels. In developed countries, massive hemorrhage and thrombo-embolism are the most frequent causes of maternal death, while in developing countries perinatal infection is the leading cause.