According to Save the Children one in three women have no professional assistance during childbirth.
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While the more fortunate are aided by traditional attendants many are alone during delivery putting them and their babies at grave risk.
On Monday's Riz Khan we speak with international supermodel, actress and goodwill ambassador Liya Kebede about her work to help all mothers gain access to medical treatment.
In the age of modern medicine, why do so many mothers and newborns continue to go without proper care?
You can join the conversation. Watch the show live on Monday, April 4, at 1930GMT. Repeats can be seen on Tuesday at 0430GMT, 0830GMT and 1430GMT.
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