Gates Foundation

Could a miniature ultrasound machine that sends images via cellphone improve maternal health outcomes? Also, Nevada passes anti-discrimination bills and Florida passes slate of anti-abortion bills.

Each day more than 7,300 babies are stillborn – a death just when a parent expects to welcome a new life. Each one is an individual story of a family devastated by the loss of their child.

Researchers at the World Health Organization have recently documented  a substantial decrease in the numbers of unsafe abortion deaths, but the incidence of unsafe abortion itself has not decreased. Anti-abortion laws in developing countries cause grave harm and endanger women's lives and health. As long as these antiquated laws remain in place,  unsafe abortion and its resulting maternal mortality and morbidity will continue.

There are good reasons to be hopeful on HIV prevention. At the same time, we have to recognize that these are tough times for  those of us who are passionate about fighting HIV.