Self-reported postpartum morbidity: prevalence and determinants among women in Marrakesh, Morocco

Maternal mortality is a public health problem particularly in developing countries. This is mainly related to maternal morbidity, especially during the post-partum period (Haemorrhage, infections…). In Morocco, little is known about maternal morbidity within the population. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of self-reported postpartum morbidity and grasp its determinants.

This descriptive and analytic cross-sectional survey was carried out in six health centers drawn randomly in Marrakesh, Morocco. A total of 1,029 women of reproductive age (15-49) giving birth in the year preceding the survey were enrolled. Women were examined in these health centers during the study period. A questionnaire gathered information about socio-demographic, health and reported postpartum morbidity. Bivariate and multiple analyses were used to identify associated factors with the self-reported postpartum morbidity. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

The self-reported postpartum morbidity prevalence was 13.1% while haemorrhage, pregnancy-induced hypertension and fever were the main complications: 71.92%; 12.18% and 10.64% respectively. According to the multiple logistic regression model, the illiteracy among women and the number of pregnancies greater than 3 determine independently this morbidity (OR = 1.24; CI 95%: 1.09-1.54; and OR = 1.69; CI 95%:1.04-2.70 respectively).

Reducing female illiteracy and fertility will help the fight against postpartum maternal morbidity, which is critical to the wellbeing of women and their infants.