Obstetric morbidity in south India: results from a community survey

A sample of 3600 mothers with at least one pre-school age child were interviewed in detail about obstetric problems associated with their last confinement. About 10% reported one or more of the classic symptoms of pre-eclampsia; and 8% reported symptoms of potentially life-threatening conditions during delivery, most notably prolonged labour of over 18 hr. Disorders during the post-partum period were more common; 10% reported excessive bleeding, loss of consciousness or convulsions (all indicative of potentially serious conditions) and an additional 17% reported symptoms of infections. The level of health care received by women is described.