Perinatal mortality in rural Tanzania

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Perinatal Medicine

Background:

• Prolonged labour was a primary cause of perinatal mortality in a rural Tanzanian hospital.
• High perinatal death rates necessitate interventions to improve obstetric care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of an obstetric policy focused on preventing prolonged labour using partogram guidelines.
• To assess the effectiveness of the partogram in reducing perinatal mortality.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of an obstetric policy incorporating partogram guidelines.
• Monitoring perinatal mortality rates before and after policy implementation.
• Utilizing Baird's clinico-pathological classification for analyzing perinatal deaths.

Main Results:

• Perinatal mortality decreased from 71 to 39 deaths per 1000 births.
• The obstetric policy effectively reduced mortality associated with prolonged labour.

Conclusions:

• The partogram is a crucial tool for preventing prolonged labour and reducing perinatal mortality.
• Integrating partogram training into maternal and child health programs is recommended.