health

May 9, 2026

Maternal Health: A Labor and Demographic Challenge with Pending Debts for Colombian Companies

Portafolio Journalist 05.09.2026 08:00 Updated: 05.09.2026 08:00

Maternal Health: A Labor and Demographic Challenge with Pending Debts for Colombian Companies

TL;DR

  • Colombia's fertility rate has fallen to one child per woman, below the level needed for generational replacement.
  • As of April 25, 2026, 89 maternal deaths have been reported in Colombia.
  • Maternal morbidity is increasing, with extreme maternal morbidity reaching 72.6 cases per 1,000 live births in 2024.
  • The Colombian Safety Council (CCS) urges companies to improve workplace safety for pregnant workers.
  • Occupational risks such as chemical exposure, biological agents, radiation, physical strain, and psychosocial factors can negatively impact maternal and fetal health.
  • Companies are advised to adopt preventive risk management models for pregnant workers, including ergonomic adjustments and tailored medical monitoring.
  • Protecting maternal health is framed as a strategic business decision impacting productivity, talent retention, and organizational resilience.