Determinants of Maternal Mortality in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria (2010-2019)

Rosemary Ogbu, Benue State Univerisity, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria
James Ikyernum, Africa
Margaret Abba Yaro, Africa
Joseph Enefu, Africa

Despite recent focus on Maternal Mortality in Nigeria, its rates remain unacceptably high. This study adopted a descriptive survey research design to determine the prevalence, medical causes and factors associated with maternal mortality in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue state, Nigeria. Data was obtained from primary survey using hospital records, the administration of questionnaires, and focus group discussions (FGDs). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, trend analysis and principal component analysis (PCA). Results showed that a total of 217 maternal deaths occurred out of 48,658 live births, giving a maternal mortality ratio of 446 per 100,000 live births. The direct causes of death accounted for 84 percent, while indirect causes were 16 percent. The major direct obstetric causes were hemorrhage, sepsis, eclampsia, obstructed labor and unsafe abortion. Amongst the indirect causes, hepatitis was a leading cause. The causes of maternal death seemed to be affected by age, education and occupation.