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133
Maternal Mortality.
There were two maternal deaths of Leyton residents during
the year. The death from puerperal septicæmia described under
puerperal pyrexia is not included, as this patient was subsequently
discovered to reside in another area.
Of the two deaths, one was due to septicaemia following
abortion. This has been discussed already under the Puerperal
Fever cases. The second was due to peritonitis following abortion
at 24 weeks. The details of the other deatli was as follows:—
1. Primigravidse, age 21. Home conditions poor. One year
previously discovered to have sarcoma of femur—leg amputated
at mid-thigh—married six months later—was advised by general
practitioner against becoming pregnant—became pregnant almost
immediately—sent to hospital when 13 weeks pregnant—termination
of pregnancy not recommended—at 24 weeks developed Temp.
102 deg., sore throat, generalised aching—influenza diagnosed—
? labour pains started next day—sent to hospital—temp, fluctuated
between 99.4 deg. and 103 deg.—occasional pains for five days after
admission—regular labour pains started on fifth day, and patient
developed an offensive discharge. The following day was delivered
of a 61/2 months foetus and placenta—patient remained extremely
ill and died three days later. Post mortem examination revealed
toxic softening of myocardium, liver, kidneys, spleen. Peritoneum
acutely inflamed throughout—slight "split" in pouch of Douglas—
severe endometritis—no retained products—scanty deposits of hard
fibrosarcoma in root glands—numerous flat deposits over the pleural
membranes.
MIDWIVES' ACTS, 1902-1926.
Supervision of Midwives.
During the year 37 midwives notified their intention to practise
in the Borough. The existence in Leytonstone of the Beachcroft
Road Training School of the Essex County Nursing Association
increases considerably the return of midwives practising in the area.
Six independent midwives residing in the Borough and four resident
outside the Borough notified their intention to practise in the area.
Of these, two midwives did not undertake any cases during the year,