Recognize the Causes of Maternal Death during Pregnancy and Childbirth

There are various causes of maternal death during pregnancy and childbirth. So that pregnant mother (pregnant)can avoid it come on, identify what are the causes and factors that can increase the risk of maternal death.

According to the World Health Organization or World Health Organization (WHO), maternal death is defined as death that occurs during pregnancy or within 42 days after delivery. In Indonesia, the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) is still relatively high. Based on 2012 data, the maternal mortality rate is quite high, which is around 359 per 100,000 per birth.

Some Causes of Maternal Death

The following are some of the causes of maternal death that you need to know:

1. Post partum hemorrhage (PPH)

In developed countries, postpartum hemorrhage or bleeding after delivery is the most common cause of maternal death. Bleeding after delivery usually occurs within a day or within weeks after delivery. Post partum bleeding is characterized by continuous bleeding from the vagina. If left untreated, bleeding after delivery will lead to shock and organ failure.

Bleeding after childbirth can be caused by several things, namely:

  • Uncontracted uterine muscles (uterine atony).
  • Birth canal wounds, such as incisions in the perineum due to an episiotomy.
  • Remaining placental tissue left in the uterus (retention of the placenta).
  • Abnormalities in the blood clotting process.
  • Ruptured uterus (uterine rupture).

2. Preeclampsia and eclampsia

Pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, can also increase the risk of death during pregnancy. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure, the presence of protein in the urine, and in advanced stages, organ damage will occur.

When preeclampsia does not get proper treatment, eclampsia will occur. Eclampsia is preeclampsia accompanied by seizures. This condition is dangerous and needs to be treated immediately.

The risk of developing preeclampsia is higher in women who are pregnant for the first time, women who are under the age of 20 or over 40, are overweight, have kidney disease, or diabetes, have a family history of high blood pressure, or are pregnant with twins.

3. History of certain diseases

Diseases experienced before and during pregnancy can also increase the risk of maternal death during pregnancy. Especially if the condition is not handled properly. The diseases in question include kidney disease, cancer, heart disease, tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV/AIDS.

4. Sepsis

Sepsis that occurs during pregnancy or after delivery can cause maternal death. This is because sepsis that is not treated properly will progress to septic shock. When you go into septic shock, your kidneys, liver, and lungs can be damaged quickly.

To reduce the risk of maternal death during pregnancy, as much as possible carry out regular check-ups and check-ups with your doctor. In addition, apply a healthy lifestyle, both before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and after giving birth.