A study of maternal mortality in a teritiary care hospital in North Coastal Andhra

ABSTRACT

Background: Pregnancy, although being considered a physiological state, carries risk of morbidity and at times death. Maternal mortality is an indicator for health care provided to the women. The major causes of maternal mortality are preventable through regular antenatal check-ups, early diagnosis and management of complications. Aim: The aim of this study was to focus on incidence of various causes of maternal mortality, and about avoidable factors that can prevent maternal deaths. Materials and methods: A hospital record based study of maternal deaths over a period of 2 years from January 2017 to December 2018 was done. The information regarding demographic profile and reproductive parameters were collected and results were analyzed. Results: MMR over a period of 2 years (2017 and 2018) was 962 per 100000 live births. Most maternal deaths occurred in the age group 20-24years. Majority were multi parous and unbooked cases. Hypertension, hemorrhage, sepsis are major direct causes. Febrile illness, respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disorders, anemia being indirect causes. Conclusion: Majority of maternal deaths were preventable by proper antenatal care, early detection of high risk pregnancies and their timely referral to tertiary care centre.