In 2003 WHO published "Working with individuals, families and communities to improve maternal and newborn health", known as the IFC Framework, that promotes integrating the health promotion approach set out in the Ottawa Charter into national maternal and newborn health strategies. More than 10 years after the original framework was published, we have updated the evidence for key interventions and for community participation. This report summarizes the final recommendation and the process for developing the guideline on health promotion interventions for maternal and newborn health. The primary audience for the guideline is health programme managers, including governmental and non-governmental organizations, and policy makers who are responsible for designing maternal, newborn and child health programmes, primarily in low-income settings. The guideline is also aimed at health providers and teaching institutions, to increase knowledge of interventions important for: (i) improving maternal and newborn health; (ii) improving the care provided within the household by women and families; (iii) increasing community support for maternal and newborn health; and (iv) increasing access to, and use of, skilled care. Development programmes and organizations supporting women's empowerment and rights will also find this guideline of use.