Maternal mortality in Basra from 2019-2021

Abstract

Background: Maternal mortality is a crucial community health indicator. The World Health Organization defines maternal death as “the annual number of female deaths from any cause related to or aggravated by pregnancy or its management (excluding accidental or incidental causes) during pregnancy and labor or within 42 days following the termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and location of the pregnancy.” Aim: This study aims to calculate the maternal mortality ratio in Basra over three years, identify the causes of death, and describe the sociodemographic factors of deceased mothers. Methods: A registry-based, descriptive, and retrospective study conducted over three months. Data were collected from maternal mortality-related registries using a structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 129 maternal deaths were recorded. The primary causes of death were obstetric hemorrhage (27 cases) followed by COVID-19 infection (22 cases). Deaths were most prevalent among women aged 30–39 years, particularly among those with a primary level of education and those who were housewives. Conclusion: Unfortunately, maternal mortality remains high, with obstetric hemorrhage identified as the leading cause of maternal death.