For Every Woman Who Dies In Childbirth In The U.S., 70 More Come Close

Alicia Nichols holds her daughter Diana in her home in February. After the birth of Diana, Nichols suffered unusual postpartum blood loss that she feels was not taken seriously by her doctor.

More than 50,000 American women nearly die from childbirth every year, according to a CDC estimate. These catastrophic complications can come at a terrible cost emotionally, financially and medically.

(Image credit: Kayana Szymczak for NPR)