Maternal Death Situation in Health Region 7 from 2020- 2024

Abstract

Objective : To investigate the maternal mortality situation, causes of maternal death, and the three-delay factors associated with maternal deaths in Health Region 7.

Method : A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using maternal death confidential enquiry (CE) reports and records from the Maternal and Child Health Committee of Health Region 7. The study included all maternal deaths occurring during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days postpartum between October 2019 and September 2024 (Fiscal Years 2020–2024). Thirty-one maternal death cases were reviewed. Data were extracted using structured data collection forms adapted from the national maternal death surveillance system developed by the Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, and maternal mortality ratios (MMR), were used for data analysis.

Result : During the study period, 134,228 live births were recorded in Health Region 7. The maternal mortality ratios during fiscal years 2020–2024 were 26.30, 34.32, 19.80, 13.73, and 21.07 per 100,000 live births, respectively. The leading direct cause of maternal death was postpartum hemorrhage (25.81%), followed by pulmonary thromboembolism and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (12.90% each). The most common indirect cause was COVID-19 pneumonia (9.68%). Analysis based on the Three Delays Model demonstrated that 3-Delays (delay in receiving adequate and appropriate care) was the predominant contributing factor throughout the study period, accounting for 46.00% to 68.00% of maternal deaths.

Conclusion : The maternal mortality ratio in Health Region 7 during fiscal years 2020–2024 remained higher than the national target. Most maternal deaths were primarily associated with 3-Delays (Delay in receiving adequate health care).