UNAIR NEWS – Universitas Airlangga’s digital health platform, Dokter UNAIR TV, continues its weekly education segment with the topic, “What Are the Most Common Causes of Maternal Mortality?”, aired on Friday, January 18, 2025.
The session featured dr. Rizki Pranandyan, SpOG, Subsp OBGINSOS, who shared insights into the primary medical and non-medical causes of maternal deaths and outlined effective prevention strategies.
Medical causes of maternal mortality
Doctor Pranandyan, referencing data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health, identified severe hemorrhaging during childbirth as the leading cause of maternal mortality from 2023 to 2024, followed by hypertensive disorders.
“Maternal deaths can also result from indirect causes,” dr. Pranandyan added, citing preexisting conditions or complications arising during pregnancy. These include infections, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, all of which can exacerbate pregnancy risks.
He noted significant advancements in Indonesia’s maternal healthcare system. “Progress is visible across the board, from basic healthcare facilities to specialized referral hospitals like RSUD Dr. Soetomo,” he stated.
Primary health centers, such as posyandu and puskesmas, now utilize the Maternal and Child Health Handbook (commonly known as the pink book), a comprehensive guide designed to monitor maternal health. High-risk pregnancies are referred to hospitals equipped with specialized care facilities.
However, dr. Pranandyan stressed that non-medical factors also significantly contribute to maternal mortality. “Families need to prioritize pregnancy planning by assessing prospective parents’ readiness through pre-marital health screenings,” he emphasized.
Addressing non-medical challenges
Despite advancements, Indonesia faces non-medical obstacles that heighten maternal mortality rates, including social challenges like early marriages and limited access to healthcare in remote areas.
To combat these issues, dr. Pranandyan underscored the importance of education. Regarding early marriage, he highlighted that professional organizations recommend a minimum marriage age aligned with physical readiness for pregnancy, ideally between 20 and 25 years or older.
For regions with limited healthcare access, he emphasized the necessity of early pregnancy risk assessments. “Early screening enables planned referrals, ensuring that high-risk cases are managed effectively,” he explained.
Finally, dr. Pranandyan highlighted the vital role of families, particularly husbands, in identifying and addressing high-risk pregnancies. He urged families to review prospective mothers’ health histories to ensure they are well-prepared for pregnancy.
Author: Zahwa Sabiila Ilman Ramadhani
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
