Maternal mortality in Central Province, Kenya, 2009-2010

Maternal mortality for Kenya was 488/100,000 live births in 2009. Maternal mortality estimate for Central Province is unknown. We retrospectively reviewed data between 1st July 2009 and 30th June 2010 to estimate the hospital based maternal mortality ratio, characterize deaths by time, place and person and describe possible causes of deaths in Central province, Kenya.

We abstracted data using a standard form from maternal death notification and review forms and the district reproductive health reports. Data was entered and analyzed using Microsoft Excel.

There were 89,512 live births and 111 deaths. The facility-based maternal mortality ratio was 124/100,000 live births. Seventy-three (66%) deaths had been audited. Thirty seven (33%) were aged 25 to 34 years. The mean age was 31 years (±6). Thirty seven (33%) had a parity of less or equal to 2. Most case deaths (19%, n = 21) had attended 2 or less antenatal visits. The main gestation was below 37 weeks with 48% (n = 53). The main mode of delivery was vaginal (26%, n = 29). Majority (35%, n = 32) case deaths had delivered a live birth. Thirty seven (33%) mothers had been stable on admission. The main reason for admission was labor with 12% (n = 13). Thirty-eight (34%) died within 24 hours after admission. Majority (27%, n = 30) were admitted antepartum but 39% (n = 43) were postpartum at the time of death. Thirty-five (32%) died of hemorrhage and 8 (7%) Eclampsia.

Maternal mortality is of public health importance in the region. Most deaths occurred within 24 hours after admission. Third delay was important. Bleeding and Eclampsia were the main causes of death. A third (34%) of notified deaths were not reviewed.