London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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East Ham 1935

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for East Ham]

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87
Average attendance of expectant mothers per
session 15.47
Number of patients referred to Dental Clinic 51
The following table gives an analysis of the pre-maternal
cases found to be slightly or seriously abnormal:—
Contracted pelvis 5
Albuminuria 14
Hyperemesis gravidarum 4
Ante-partum haemorrhage 3
Malpresentation 8
Cervicitis 3
Valvular disease of heart 3
Varicose veins 13
Phlebitis 1
Anaemia 6
Bronchitis 4
Pulmonary tuberculosis 2
Dyspepsia 11
It is satisfactory to note that during this year a larger number
of cases attending the Ante-natal Clinic were sent by midwives,
but I would again urge the necessity of midwives taking more
advantage of the Clinic, and bringing their cases for medical
examination and advice, for though many midwives carry out
ante-natal supervision with care and accuracy, conditions may be
present or develop which can only be discovered by medical examination.
The detection and treatment of these conditions would
minimise many dangers and prevent unavoidable difficulties at the
confinement, thus safeguarding both mother and child.
Expectant mothers are visited by the Health Visitors in their
homes and given advice regarding arrangements for confinement
and general hygiene of the mother.
The following-up of cases also ensures regular attendance at
the Clinic.
During 1935, 711 visits were paid to expectant mothers.
Maternity Accommodation
Under the provision of the Maternity and Child Welfare Act
1918, empowering Local Authorities to make arrangements for