Maternal deaths rising in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Health (DoH) on Friday expressed alarm over the rising number of maternal deaths in Metro Manila due to bleeding or maternal hemorrhage.

In January alone, 50 maternal deaths were recorded in the capital, according to Dr. Eduardo Janairo, director of the DOH-Center for Health Development in the National Capital Region.

A partial report from the Regional Surveillance and Epidemiology Unit showed that most of these cases were from Pasig City, accounting for 15 deaths; Makati, 10; Valenzuela, 8, and Las Piñas, 5.  Four maternal deaths were each reported in the cities of Parañaque and Pasay and two deaths each in Navotas and Mandaluyong.

Maternal mortality refers to deaths caused by pregnancy or childbirth complications arising from infection, hemorrhage or bleeding, hypertensive disorders, obstructed labor and unsafe abortion. This happens within 42 days of giving birth, according to the health agency.

In 2010, among the top causes of maternal deaths in Metro Manila were eclampsia or convulsions after giving birth (43 percent), hemorrhage (33 percent), medical complication (17 percent) and infection (7 percent).

Janairo on Friday stressed the need to immediately address the prevalence of maternal deaths by providing immediate and sufficient resources, particularly safe blood facilities and services for pregnant women.

Janairo also underscored the need for skilled birthing attendants to efficiently respond to risky maternal deliveries.