This is reflected in the high levels of persistent, but largely preventable, morbidity and mortality. Among human development indicators, maternal mortality rates represent the widest gap between developed and developing countries. These statistics show that investing in women at different stages of life could save millions of women in developing countries from needless suffering or premature death. However, the resources allocated for women's health do not reflect the clearly demonstrated need. Poor health is a reflection of the low status of women in many developing countries.
Some cultures can also limit a women's access to health services.
Women's health is affected by complex biological, social, and cultural factors. Therefore, to reach women effectively, policies and programs must take into account the biological factors that increase health risks for women and such sociocultural determinants of health as age at marriage and status in the family, as well as psychological factors, such as low self-esteem and depression arising from discrimination and gender violence. Women's lack of education and disadvantaged social position help perpetuate poor health and high fertility, as well as the continued cycle of poverty. Because women tend to be less educated and have less access to information, they are less apt to recognize problems or understand the value of or seek out preventive and curative care. For example, female education, especially through the secondary level, is associated with greater use of contraception and increased age of marriage, both of which improve women's health by reducing their exposure to pregnancy and early child bearing.