Geoffrey Lafond: Common Causes of Maternal Mortality

Geoffrey Lafond is an obstetrics and gynecology specialist in Barbados. Specialists like Geoffrey Lafond have helped reduce the occurrence of maternal mortality dramatically by providing necessary healthcare to pregnant women. Unfortunately, though, some causes of maternal mortality are still a risk to women.

Though the risk of maternal mortality is low with proper healthcare, some of the most common causes still prevalent in modern society include:

• Hemorrhage – Hemorrhage refers to uncontrolled bleeding and it causes approximately one-fourth of maternal deaths, making it the most serious risk. The blood loss could occur during pregnancy, during labor or postpartum. Without medical intervention, hemorrhage at any point of pregnancy can quickly lead to death. It is often treated with the removal of placenta, with the induction of uterine contractions or with blood transfusions.
• Sepsis – Sepsis refers to an infection and it is the cause of around fifteen-percent of maternal death. Sepsis is linked to poor hygienic practices, lack of infection control during pregnancy and the presence or introduction of untreated sexually transmitted diseases during pregnancy. It can be prevented or managed with high standards of hygiene and appropriate administration of antibiotics.
• Hypertensive Disorders – Hypertensive disorders cause approximately twelve-percent of maternal mortality and they are characterized by high blood pressure, swelling, sudden weight gain and protein in the urine, as well as organ failure, seizures and coma. Sedatives and anti-convulsant drugs offer the most common treatment options. If untreated, conditions can cause both maternal and infant mortality.
• Labor Issues – Labor issues account for around eight-percent of maternal deaths and they include both obstructed and prolonged labor. Most commonly, labor issues are caused by cephalopelvic disproportion, meaning that there is a disproportionate size between the pelvis and the fetal head, or by the fetus position at delivery. Issues are increasingly prevalent in women with poor nutrition. Caesarean sections, forceps and other methods or tools can prevent adverse outcomes.
• Unsafe Abortion – Unsafe abortions account for nearly fifteen-percent of maternal death. This number increases to more than thirty-three percent in some areas of the world. Maternal death related to unsafe abortion can be prevented through safe sex, family planning, safe abortion methods and quality post-abortion care.

By working with a specialist with experience and training like that of Geoffrey Lafond, you can reduce or eliminate your risk of maternal mortality. If you suspect that you might be pregnant, begin working with a qualified specialist immediately to best care for you and your unborn child.

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Geoffrey Lafond is an obstetrics and gynecology specialist in Barbados. Specialists like Geoffrey Lafond have helped reduce the occurrence of maternal mortality dramatically by providing necessary healthcare to pregnant women.