Reproductive morbidity
Dasgupta, S.
Journal of the Indian Medical Association 93(2): 55-57
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-5847 PMID: 7658038 Document Number: 293279
Efforts are underway to reduce the incidence of maternal mortality in the world, and concern is increasingly being expressed about the incidence of maternal morbidity. Maternal morbidity can be classified as 1) obstetric morbidity (direct, indirect, or psychological); 2) gynecological morbidity (direct, indirect, or psychological); and 3) contraceptive morbidity. Maternal morbidity has a debilitating effect on families and, thus, on entire societies. The complications leading to morbidity include ectopic pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, obstructed labor, abruptio placentae, severe postpartum hemorrhage, and uterine rupture. The longterm effects of these complications include uterine prolapse, urinary fistulas, and Sheehan syndrome (amenorrhea, failure of lactation, and infertility). In addition to conducting research to determine the extent and varieties of morbidity encountered in a population, a program to combat morbidity should 1) include an educational program for potential clients, 2) improve client confidence through the provision of necessary services like sanitation and of screening services, 3) network with other organizations providing services, and 4) incorporate proper epidemiological and record-keeping procedures.