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Maternal Mortality.
It is very pleasing to be able to report that in 1938, for
the first time on record, there was no maternal death. This
happy state of affairs reflects credit not only on all the
doctors and nurses who have taken care of the mothers
during pregnancy and confinement, but also on the mothers
themselves, who at long last have come to realise the
importance of ante...natal supervision to their own safety and
the well...being of their offspring.
The rate for England and Wales was 3.08 per 1,000
births.
The Supply of Milk for Mothers and Children.
The supply of milk and accessory foods for children
under school age is organised by the Voluntary Association,
and for that purpose a grant of £75 was made by the
Council. In 1938, owing to an increase in the amount of milk
issued at less than cost price, this grant was increased by
£25.
Milk for necessitous expectant and nursing mothers is
provided by the Council free or at half-price according to an
income scale. Up to two pints a day may be given at the
discretion of the Medical Officer. All the milk provided must
be pasteurised.
The number of mothers in receipt of milk showed a
decrease compared with the previous year — 79 free and 15
at half...price. The figures for 1937 were 98 free and 20 at
half...price. The cost to the Council was approximately £130.
Puerperal Pyrexia.
In 1938 two cases of puerperal pyrexia were notified.
Both were removed tc hospital and both recovered.
Ophthalmia Neonatorum.
One case of ophthalmia neonatorum was notified in 1938.
Rome Visiting.
During the year the health visitors made 4,836 visits
in connection with Maternity and Child Welfare work, as
compared with 4,857 in 1937.
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