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13
Although the conclusions to be drawn from the investigation
are somewhat indefinite, certain facts emerge which are
helpful in the light of present-day obstetric service.
Whilst many of the conditions giving rise to still births are
inevitable or unavoidable, it is apparent that in certain cases
closer ante-natal supervision might have revealed preventable
causes and permitted of appropriate treatment before confinement.
Malpresentation, disproportion, and history of previous
still births come within this category.
Malpresentation was responsible for the still births in 26.3
per cent. of cases admitted to hospital; in 21.4 per cent. of the
confinements attended by general practitioners, and in 36 per
cent, of those conducted by midwives.
In four cases the health of the mother was considered to be
the predisposing cause of the still birth.
The investigation revealed that in certain cases delay in
obtaining medical aid may have jeopardised the life of the child.
In no instance is there any evidence of a child having been born
without a doctor or State Certified Midwife being in attendance
or engaged. There is no evidence to substantiate any suggestion
that still births were due to attempts to terminate pregnancy by
artificial means.
Conditions arising before confinement 33
Conditions arising at birth 38
No obvious cause 6
Total 77
Malpresentation 22
Premature 17
History of previous still births 11
Associated with Maternal Deaths 2
Any causes of Sickness or Invalidity which have been
specially noteworthy in the Borough during the year;
arid any Conditions of Occupation or Environment