In this compilation, a framework for exploring coupled physical-social systems impacts on health are presented. Specifically, this system is used to articulate three climate change impact pathways for maternal health: vectorborne diseases, water, sanitation, and hygiene, and nutrition. Following this, Maternal Health: Global Perspectives, Challenges and Issues move beyond discussing the implications of maternal obesity on maternal and child health and focus on why it is imperative to consolidate current evidence into practice and policy around prevention. The authors explore what is needed to translate findings from epidemiological, clinical trial, secondary research and evidence synthesis into evidence-based programs. The concluding study analyzes data on disparities in maternal mortality by race, age and causes of death in the interest of identifying whether pregnancy-related deaths may be avoided in preventable conditions if treated earlier, thereby closing the racial disparities of maternal mortality rates in the United States.