UPSC-CMS 2013 — Obstetrics and Gynecology

Question 31: Among the causes of maternal mortality, which of the following is correct in descending order of maternal deaths in India ?

• A. Obstructed labour, haemorrhage, abortion, sepsis
• B. Haemorrhage, sepsis, abortion, obstructed labour (Correct Answer)
• C. Haemorrhage, obstructed labour, abortion, sepsis
• D. Sepsis, obstructed labour, abortion, haemorrhage

Explanation: ***Haemorrhage, sepsis, abortion, obstructed labour*** - This order reflects the **leading causes of maternal mortality in India** as per data available during 2010-2013 period. - **Haemorrhage** (38%) is the primary cause due to postpartum hemorrhage, antepartum bleeding, and complications during delivery. - **Sepsis** (11%) includes puerperal sepsis and infections following unsafe deliveries. - **Abortion** (8%) complications, particularly from unsafe procedures, remain a significant contributor. - **Obstructed labour** causes have decreased with improved access to cesarean sections and skilled birth attendance. *Obstructed labour, haemorrhage, abortion, sepsis* - This order is incorrect as **haemorrhage** consistently ranks as the leading cause of maternal deaths in India, not obstructed labour. - Obstructed labour has significantly declined due to better access to emergency obstetric care. *Haemorrhage, obstructed labour, abortion, sepsis* - This order is incorrect because **sepsis** accounts for a higher percentage of maternal deaths than obstructed labour. - While haemorrhage is correctly placed first, sepsis should come before obstructed labour in the ranking. *Sepsis, obstructed labour, abortion, haemorrhage* - This order is completely incorrect as **haemorrhage** is overwhelmingly the leading cause of maternal mortality in India. - Placing haemorrhage last contradicts all epidemiological data on maternal deaths in India.