THE ROLE OF EXTRAGENITAL DISEASES IN MATERNAL MORTALITY: A CLINICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

Maternal mortality remains a critical global health issue, with increasing attention being given to indirect causes such as extragenital diseases. This study aimed to analyze the role and clinical characteristics of non-obstetric conditions in maternal mortality. A retrospective clinical study was conducted at a tertiary maternity hospital over the period 2018–2024, including 60 cases of maternal death associated with extragenital pathology. Data were collected from medical records, laboratory findings, and autopsy reports.

The results showed that cardiovascular diseases (30%) were the leading cause among extragenital factors, followed by viral hepatitis (20%), other chronic conditions (20%), viral-bacterial pneumonia (16.7%), and parasitic diseases (13.3%). Most maternal deaths occurred during the third trimester, and delayed diagnosis along with inadequate management were identified as key contributing factors.

The findings highlight the significant impact of extragenital diseases on maternal mortality and emphasize the need for early diagnosis, multidisciplinary care, and improved clinical management. Strengthening antenatal screening and integrating specialized care can reduce mortality rates associated with non-obstetric conditions.