Epidemiology of maternal death and the challenge of professional qualification

Abstract

Maternal mortality is an important health indicator that reflects socioeconomic conditions and quality of life in a given location. Most of the time, these deaths can be avoided through quality prenatal care, specialized hospital care and human resources capable of obstetric emergencies. Objective: to describe the reported maternal deaths that occurred in the municipalities covered by the Regional Health Department of Ribeirão Preto, from 2011 to 2016, identifying the main problems of the care provided. Method: descriptive, retrospective study with a quantitative approach, with analysis of secondary data from the Mortality Information System, referring to declared maternal deaths. Results: most maternal deaths occurred in women aged 20 to 29 years (63.9%), with a mean age of 28.1 years, the majority being single (50%), white (66.7 %), primiparous (41.7%), with different occupations. Access to prenatal care was noticeable in early enrollment (72.2%) and in the number of consultations during prenatal care. Maternal death from a direct cause evolved in 77.8% of deaths and the main causes of death were hypertension, infection and hemorrhage. The women's health care network in the pregnancy-puerperal cycle has good coverage of basic care, equivalent in supplementary health coverage and has 20 maternity hospitals in its territory, including two with qualification in high-risk pregnancies. Conclusion: maternal death remains a challenge for obstetric care, and it is essential that good practices become routine. Institutions and professionals need to comply with care protocols based on scientific evidence for fast and accurate care. At the heart of every maternal death is a family tragedy and a devastating social impact.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/tfisdwv1-040