Exploring the causes of and risk factors for maternal deaths in a rural Nigerian referral hospital

A 10-year (1990-9) review of all maternal deaths at Mater Misericordiae Hospital is presented. A total of 104 deaths occurred out of 13 391 deliveries (MMR 777/100 000). Haemorrhage, sepsis and Hypertensive diseases in pregnancy were the leading causes of death. Age below 15, Nulliparity, Grandmultiparity, low socio-economic class, lack of formal education and being unbooked were also significant risk factors. Delay in accessing health facility was also an identified contributing factor. Public enlightenment to encourage utilisation of antenatal facilities, prompt referral of complicated cases and adequate equipping of the referral hospital is suggested.