Maternal mortality in Nigerian women aged 35 years and above.
Maternal deaths over a 5-year period were reviewed retrospectively. The aim was to compare the incidence and causes of maternal deaths and the fetal outcome in women aged 35 years and above with women in the 20-24 age bracket. The classic triad of haemorrhage, sepsis and hypertensive disorders were the major causes of deaths in the 2 groups but were commoner amongst the elderly women. A higher incidence of perinatal mortality was also found in the elderly women's group compared to the younger women's group. Pregnancy and delivery at an advanced age is associated with increased risk and should be prevented by the use of effective contraception.
Okwerekwu
F E
FE
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ilorin, Nigeria.
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000401:mortality; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000401:mortality; D008428:Maternal Mortality; D008875:Middle Aged; D009549:Nigeria; D007744:Obstetric Labor Complications / Q000401:mortality*; D010298:Parity; D049590:Postpartum Period; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000401:mortality*; D012307:Risk Factors