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106
In Camberwell steps have been taken to bring to the attention
of the medical profession and midwives the facilities available
for obstetric advice and treatment. In addition to the prenatal
clinics at St. Giles' Hospital and the various Infant Welfare
Centres, the professional supervision of the expectant mother is
an integral part of the arrangements of the General Lying-in
Hospitals in and around London, where many Camberwell
mothers are confined annually, so that it may be said that there
is a considerably larger proportion of women, receiving individual
instruction and attention nowadays than took place a few
years ago.
The success of any measures to reduce the maternal mortality
rate depends to a large extent on the creation of an enlightened
public opinion. Without it the work of the medical profession is
greatly hampered.
We know that as the result of ante-natal examinations such
conditions as eclampsia can be prevented; obstructed labour, with
its unfortunate sequelae, can also be prevented. Therefore it is important
for women to realise that the earlier they receive medical
supervision during pregnancy the less likelihood is there of
difficulty and danger at the time of confinement.
It is pleasing to record that there was a further decline in the
number of deaths connected with childbirth during last year.
Indeed, as far as is known, the present mortality rate is the lowest
that has ever been recorded in Camberwell.
In the following table is shown the number of deaths and the
rate per 1,000 births during the past 5 years:—

It will be observed on examination of the above table that
puerperal sepsis is the principal cause of death amongst parturient
women. The causation of puerperal fever and morbidity
is at the present time receiving the careful consideration of a
Committee set up by the British Medical Association.