Obstetric deaths in Lusaka

A detailed study of the obstetric services in Lusaka is presented. The maternal and perinatal mortality rates for 1976 were estimated at 1.7 and 55.1 per 1000 live births respectively. The persistent increase in mortality suggests a fall of accepted standards of maternity care. The causes of deaths are discussed. Avoidable factors were identified in 79.6% of the maternal deaths and 49.1% of the stillbirths. Recommendations are made for a more integrated type of maternity service, provisions of maternity centres, education programmes for the public and a more thorough perinatal care. Only a concerted effort of this nature will eventually result in a satisfactory progress in the obstetric services and a reduction of obstetric deaths and morbidity.