RESUMO
To analyse the maternal mortality with its causes and possible contributing risk factors at Ghulam Mohammad Mahar Medical College Hospital, Sukkur. This study was carried out at Gynae / Obs Unit-1 of Ghulam Mohammad Mahar Medical College Hospital, Sukkur from Jan-2007 to Dec-2008. Descriptive case series study. This study was conducted by analysing the death records of all maternal deaths who died over a period of two [02] years from Jan 2007 to Dec 2008. The demographic record included age, parity, booking status and education. The cause of death and possible contributing factors were evaluated. 48 mothers died during this period making Maternal Mortality Ratio [MMR] of 1578/100,000 live births. Direct causes contributed to 79% [38] of maternal deaths while 21% [10] were due to indirect causes. The major causes of deaths were eclampsia 27% [13], haemorrhage 33% [11], Sepsis 21% [10], Obstructed labour 8% [4]. Among indirect causes, hepatic encethalopathy, anemia and renal failure were observed. Eclampsia, haemorrhage and Sepsis are still the major killers. Factors which need urgent improvement include education, antenatal booking, early diagnosis and referrals to tertiary care centers