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Maternal mortality audit in a Zimbabwean province
1Gweru Provincial Hospital, Zimbabwe.
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Maternal deaths in Zimbabwe were frequently linked to avoidable factors within the health system. Addressing these issues is crucial for reducing the maternal mortality rate of 137 per 100,000 births.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Maternal mortality remains a significant global health challenge.
- Identifying avoidable factors is key to improving maternal healthcare outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a maternal mortality audit in Midlands Province, Zimbabwe.
- To determine the most frequent avoidable factors contributing to maternal deaths.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective audit of maternal deaths over a two-year period.
- Analysis of causes of death and identification of contributing avoidable factors.
Main Results:
- Maternal mortality rate was 137 per 100,000 total births.
- Leading causes included uterine rupture, eclampsia, hemorrhage, and C-section accidents.
- Avoidable factors were present in 87% of deaths, with health system failures in 57% and patient factors in 33%.
Conclusions:
- A high proportion of maternal deaths in the region involve avoidable factors.
- Health system deficiencies are the primary contributors to preventable maternal mortality.
- Interventions should focus on improving healthcare delivery to reduce maternal deaths.
Keywords:
AfricaAfrica South Of The SaharaCauses Of DeathCesarean Section--complicationsDelivery Of Health CareDelivery--complicationsDemographic FactorsDeveloping CountriesEastern AfricaEnglish Speaking AfricaHealthHealth ServicesIncidenceMaternal Health ServicesMaternal Mortality--prevention and controlMaternal-child Health ServicesMeasurementMortalityObstetrical SurgeryPopulationPopulation DynamicsPregnancyPregnancy OutcomesPrimary Health CareReproductionResearch MethodologyRetrospective StudiesStudiesSurgeryTreatmentZimbabwe