The reproductive health plays a major role in the health system. However, although it is defined as “a state of physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters relating to the reproductive system, its functions, its operation and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”, it is nevertheless left a link still worrying in its shutters relative to the mother and to the child in sub-Saharan Africa.

This situation of maternal and child health is reflected in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in its point 4 (reduce by two thirds the mortality rate among children under 5 years) and 5 (improve maternal health). In this perspective, promote maternal and child health can help to reduce the rates of maternal and infant deaths which are higher in developing countries. The growth of those mortality rates results from the combined effect of many factors, including human and environmental factors. It is a challenge that requires the mobilization of the entire scientific community.

In this context, the social sciences, especially anthropology and sociology can contribute effectively to this challenge by providing insight into human behavior underlying health problems.

Original research articles, case studies and brief high quality communications on the issue of reproductive health in general and in particular on the health of the mother and child are expected in the current issue of the Anthropology review.