A push to address perinatal deaths

A Perinatal and Maternal Mortality Review Committee report has found baby deaths during pregnancy and up to six days after birth, were static between 2007 and 2021.

Congenital abnormality accounted for the most deaths in 2021 - and 12.4 percent had no known cause.

Chair, John Tait, says the numbers are related to social factors affecting health - and accessibility for mothers.

He says Maori and Pasifika find it difficult to access ultrasounds, and women under 20 require special clinics.