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puerperal fever is as unfavourable as that of the provinces. If this
disease were to be eliminated, as it has been substantially from the
experience of many lying-in-hospitals, a further saving of 1,100 lives of
mothers would be secured annually in England and Wales.
The close relationship between factory work for married women and
excessive mortality from child-bearing is indicated. Although dogmatism
as to causation is not justified, and the need for further intensive inquiry
is suggested by the facts under each heading, Dr. Newsholme says
the presumption is justified that better arrangements for ante-natal care
and for midwifery attendance would go far to reduce the mortality from
child-bearing.
In order that official action may be taken for reducing maternal
mortaliy and suffering in child-bearing, measures must be adopted for
ascertaining what cases need help. This condition, the report states,
can be fulfilled by : (a) The provision of skilled assistance at maternity
centres, which is one of the best means for obtaining such information ;
(b) the notification of births, which provides essential information ;
(c) the notification of puerperal fever when made more effective.
Hospital provision for the treatment of puerperal fever is most valuable
in itself, as well as in securing more complete notification ; (d) the
collection of the statistics of hospital experience ; (e) the provision of
pathological aids for diagnosis, which will lead to the better diagnosis
and treatment of many cases of illness in child-bearing. Other suggestions
are concerned with ante-natal work in connection with clinics and
consultations, and difficulties in regard to the supply of midwives are
discussed at length. The report makes a most opportune appearance
at a time when it is important for the public to realise the urgent necessity
for maternity and infant welfare schemes.
Female Sanitary Inspectors and Health Visitors.
NOTIFICATION OF BIRTHS.
During the year 5989 visits were made to the homes of babies.
Early notification as required by the Act has been systematically carried
out, and it may be said that the Notification of Births Act is working
efficiently in the Borough.
There were 2955 births registered during 1915.
„ 3014 „ notified „ „