Maternal mortality in the Irish Republic, 1989-1991

The aim was to study the numbers and causes of Maternal Mortality in the Irish Republic in the years 1989-1991, inclusive and publish sufficient detail to allow for international comparative studies. Maternal Deaths were identified via Death Certificates, Coroners' Reports and Hospital Annual Reports. Details of these deaths were then obtained from relevant clinicians and analysed by the authors with further consultation with involved parties, if necessary. There were nineteen deaths notified in the three year period. According to ICD9 these were classified as five direct, seven indirect, and seven fortuitous deaths. Amongst the five Direct deaths, two were associated with amniotic fluid embolism, and one with each of eclampsia, septicaemia and pulmonary embolism, a direct maternal mortality rate of 3.2 per 100,000 births.