Abstract
Background
Maternal mortality is a critical indicator of healthcare quality, and in Mexico, this has become increasingly concerning due to the stagnation in its decline, alongside a concurrent increase in cesarean section (C-section) rates. This study characterizes maternal deaths in Mexico, focusing on estimating the association between obstetric risk profiles, cause of death, and mode of delivery.
Methods
Utilizing a retrospective observational design, 4,561 maternal deaths in Mexico from 2010–2014 were analyzed. Data were sourced from the Deliberate Search and Reclassification of Maternal Deaths database, alongside other national databases. An algorithm was developed to extract the Robson Ten Group Classification System from clinical summaries text, facilitating a nuanced analysis of C-section rates. Information on the reasons for the performance of a C-section was also obtained. Logistic regression and multinomial logistic regression models were used to estimate the relation between obstetric risk factors, mode of delivery and causes of maternal death, adjusting for covariates.
Results
Among maternal deaths in Mexico from 2010–2014, 47.1% underwent a C-section, with a significant history of previous C-sections observed in 31.4% of these cases, compared to 17.4% for vaginal deliveries (p
Conclusions
This study highlights a significant overuse of C-sections among maternal deaths in Mexico (2010–2014), revealed through the Robson classification and ana analysis of the reported indications for the procedure. It underscores the need for revising clinical decision-making to promote evidence-based guidelines and favor vaginal deliveries when possible. High C-section rates, especially noted disparities between private and public sectors, suggest economic and non-clinical factors may be at play. The importance of accurate data systems and further research with control groups to understand C-section practices’ impact on maternal health is emphasized.