Incidence and causes of maternal mortality in five Kampala Hospitals; 1980-1986

ABSTRACT

This report presents results of a descriptive study to estimate the mortality rate; identify the type and the causes of maternal deaths. The study was conducted in 1987 in Kampala hospitals for a period covering seven years from 1st January 1980 to 31st December; 1986. The non abortion maternal mortality rate (NAMMR) was 2.65 per 1000 deliveries while the abortion related maternal mortality rate (ARMMR) was 3.58 per 1000 abortions. There was a statistically significant increase in NAMMR was almost significant over the seven year period. of all maternal deaths; 80 per cent were non abortion while 20 per cent were abortion related. The commonest immediate causes of death; in orderof importance; sepsis; haemorrhage; ruptured uterus; anaesthesia and anemia. The commonest patient management factors which contributed to death; in order of importance; were lack of blood for transfusion; lack of drugs and intravenous fluids; theatre problems and doctor related factors. We feel that a lot happens to the pregnant mother before she finally reaches a health unit for delivery and that there is a great need to improve on the community's gynaecological and obstetrical services as well as a mbulance and emergency services. We also feel that maternal mortality in developing countries could be reduced if the health workers were imaginative in respect to each aptient; tried not to operate as though they were working in a developed country; and created relevant solutions for the local problem: