Menu Merk for Mothers PEP TALK Every two minutes, somewhere in the world, a woman dies from complications of pregnancy and childbirth. So many of these deaths happen in the developing world, but no geography is spared. Although maternal deaths globally have dropped by 44 percent since 1990, the number of women dying in pregnancy and childbirth in the U.S. has increased during the same time period. To help raise awareness of the leading causes of maternal death in the U.S., Merck for Mothers – Merck’s 10-year, $500 million initiative to help reduce maternal mortality – is introducing a simple way we can all make a difference: encourage expecting families to have a “PEP Talk.” VIDEO: JENNIFER’S STORY Near-miss survivor Jennifer Albert shares her story of suffering from a post-partum hemorrhage. TELL THEM TO HAVE A "PEP TALK" Any woman can be at risk for pregnancy complications, so if someone you love is pregnant, make sure she is talking to a health care professional about potential pregnancy complications. "PEP" STANDS FOR THREE OF THE LEADING CAUSES OF MATERNAL DEATH IN THE U.S.: The simple act of having a “PEP Talk” with a health care professional about potential pregnancy complications in the U.S. could help provide life-saving information. Learn more about how to have a PEP Talk ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PEP Talk FAQ Who should have a PEP Talk? Anyone pregnant, or considering becoming pregnant, and her family members. A woman’s entire support network should be informed and be her advocate. When should expecting families have a PEP Talk? Anytime before or during pregnancy is important, but don’t forget about the weeks after birth. Be sure your loved ones know to speak up if something doesn’t feel or seem right. Is it difficult to tell your loved ones about having a PEP Talk? Sometimes the hardest things to say are the most important. Telling your loved ones to have a PEP Talk shows you care and could help to provide life-saving information. PEP Talk Factsheet LEARN MORE MerckforMothers.com Published Oct. 2014; updated Nov. 2016 Copyright. © 2009-2017 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. All rights reserved. Forward-Looking Statement Privacy Terms of Use Site Map