Maternal deaths in Norway 2005-2009

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Medical Statistics

Background:

• Maternal mortality is underreported even in high-income countries like Norway.
• Accurate data is crucial for understanding and reducing maternal deaths.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the true number of maternal deaths in Norway from 2005-2009.
• To identify causes of maternal mortality and assess potential for improved medical care.

Main Methods:

• Linked Medical Birth Registry and Cause of Death Registry data.
• Supplemented registry data with information from maternity clinics.
• Conducted meticulous case reviews to determine cause of death and care improvement potential.

Main Results:

• Identified 26 maternal deaths, a maternal mortality ratio of 8.7/100,000 live births.
• Official statistics only recorded 14 deaths; 12 were underreported.
• Hypertensive disorders, thromboembolism, and mental illness were leading causes; many indirect deaths were missed.

Conclusions:

• Maternal death is substantially underreported in Norwegian official statistics.
• Improved management of hypertensive disorders and thromboembolism is critical.
• Enhanced screening for pulmonary embolism and mental health disorders is recommended.