Postnatal maternal morbidity: extent, causes, prevention and treatment

TLDR

The study aims to describe the prevalence and causes of postnatal maternal morbidity. A questionnaire survey of 1249 women, supplemented by SMR1 returns, case records and the Aberdeen Maternity and Neonatal Databank, was conducted across postnatal care settings to assess self‑reported morbidity, treatment, readmission rates and causes. Approximately 85–87 % of mothers reported at least one health problem during the postnatal period, indicating that maternal morbidity is extensive and under‑recognised, and interventions are required.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective To describe the prevalence and causes of postnatal maternal morbidity. Design Questionnaire survey of postnatal patients. Further data extracted from SMRl returns, case records and the Aberdeen Maternity and Neonatal Databank. Setting Postnatal care in a teaching maternity hospital, midwife delivery hospital, general practitioner maternity units and in the community. Subjects Twenty percent random sample of deliveries (1249 women) surveyed one week, eight weeks and 12 to 18 months after delivery. Main outcome measures Incidence of self reported maternal morbidity, treatment received, readmission rates and causes for readmission. Results Of mothers in the sample 85% (99% CI 82‐88%) reported at least one health problem in hospital, rising to 87% (84‐90%) of those at home; 76% (71‐81%) reported at least one health problem after eight weeks post‐delivery. Conclusions Maternal morbiditv is extensive and under‐recognised after delivery. Measures to reduce and alleviate it must be sought.