To do that, Costello's co-lead researcher took samples of bacteria from mothers and babies immediately before and after birth.

VOA: standard.2010.06.30

A year ago around 90 percent did. Also,more women receive care before giving birth than ever before, and more midwives are present at births.

VOA: standard.2009.11.10

Once common in Europe and the United States, cases of obstetric fistula now occur almost entirely in the developing world where poor nutrition and girls giving birth before their pelvis is fully developed contribute to the risks.

VOA: standard.2009.12.23

"Starting from before the woman becomes pregnant, during the delivery, (during the birth and continuing until the child is five years and older.") The World Health Organization has targeted 68 countries with the highest maternal, infant and child deaths.

VOA: standard.2010.05.11