Study Finds Five Leading Causes for Maternal Mortality in California

There were more than 200 pregnancy-related deaths in California between 2002 and 2005, the causes of which varied, according to a study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology, the Los Angeles Examiner reports.

Details of Study

For the study, researchers analyzed:

• Autopsy reports;
• Coroner reports; and
• Medical records.

Among the 207 pregnancy-related deaths in California during the study period, the leading causes were:

• Blood clots in veins;
• Cardiovascular disease;
• Hemorrhage;
• Preeclampsia or eclampsia (toxemia); and
• Release of amniotic fluid into the bloodstream.

The causes of death varied by:

• Body mass index;
• Maternal age;
• Method of delivery; and
• Timing of death.

Further, the study found that there was a good or strong chance of altering the outcome among 41% of the deaths. The deaths most likely to be prevented were those caused by hemorrhage and preeclampsia.

The researchers concluded that the findings provide support for the use of hospital, state and national maternal safety programs (Wulffson, Los Angeles Examiner, 4/2).