Maternal death

Definition

Maternal death is the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy. It is often linked to complications related to pregnancy and delivery, including nutritional deficiencies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nutritional deficiencies like anemia can significantly increase the risk of maternal death.
2. Adequate folic acid intake before and during pregnancy can reduce neural tube defects in the fetus, indirectly reducing maternal mortality.
3. Malnutrition can weaken a pregnant woman's immune system, making her more susceptible to infections that could lead to maternal death.
4. Maternal obesity increases the risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension, both of which are significant contributors to maternal mortality.
5. Micronutrient supplementation (iron, calcium) during pregnancy has been shown to lower the risk of complications leading to maternal death.

Review Questions

• How does anemia contribute to an increased risk of maternal death?
• Why is folic acid important in reducing maternal mortality?
• What role do micronutrients play in preventing maternal deaths?

Related terms

Neural Tube Defects: Birth defects of the brain and spinal cord due to incomplete development during early pregnancy.

Gestational Diabetes: A form of high blood sugar affecting pregnant women that can lead to complications for both mother and child.

Hypertension in Pregnancy: High blood pressure occurring during pregnancy that can cause severe health risks for both mother and fetus.