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A study on maternal mortality in Mexico through a qualitative approach
R Castro1, L Campero, B Hernández
1Regional Center for Multidisciplinary Research, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Cuernavaca, Morelos.
Journal of Women'S Health & Gender-Based Medicine
|August 25, 2000
Summary
Maternal deaths in Mexico were linked to delays in seeking and receiving care, and poor quality services. Interventions must address inequalities and early stages of complications to reduce mortality.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Demography
Background:
- Maternal mortality remains a significant public health issue globally.
- Understanding the multifaceted factors contributing to maternal deaths is crucial for effective intervention design.
- Verbal autopsy studies provide valuable insights into causes and circumstances surrounding deaths, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify modifiable factors associated with maternal mortality in Mexico.
- To analyze delays in the care-seeking process for maternal deaths.
- To examine quality of care issues and socioeconomic/gender inequalities contributing to maternal mortality.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of verbal autopsy data from 145 households in three Mexican states.
- Review of death certificates from 1995 to identify maternal deaths.
- Utilized a precoded questionnaire and open-ended questions exploring socioeconomic conditions, causes of death, and the narrative of events leading to death.
- Analysis structured around the 'three delays' model and quality of care.
Main Results:
- Significant delays were identified in deciding to seek care, reaching a healthcare facility, and receiving adequate care upon arrival.
- Socioeconomic and gender inequalities were found to be significant contributing factors to maternal deaths.
- Issues related to the quality of care provided were also identified as critical.
Conclusions:
- Interventions targeting maternal mortality must address delays in all stages of care-seeking and delivery.
- Reducing socioeconomic and gender inequalities is essential for preventing maternal deaths.
- Focusing on early recognition of complications and improving the quality of care are key recommendations.