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
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.