International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

High maternal mortality rates (MMR) in India could be due to the absence of trained midwives in the country, it has been suggested, highlighting the risks facing women's health.

Ashok Mishra, the country's chief medical officer, told the Times of India that a lack of institutional deliveries could be contributing to the number of deaths.

He said: "Maternal death usually occurs between the third trimester of pregnancy and first week after delivery. There are more chances of a woman's death within the first two days after the delivery."

The lack of trained personnel is one of the key contributing factors, he suggested.

One of the key reasons behind the trend is the high rate of anaemia in pregnant women, with lack of care and undernourishment enhancing the risk of death, Mr Mishra explained.

Leaders and health experts across Africa are due to meet in Uganda to discuss ways to lower infant and maternal mortality across the continent.

Posted by Alexandra George