At least 80% of all maternal deaths result from five complications that are well understood and can be readily treated: haemorrhage, sepsis, eclampsia, complications of abortion, and obstructed labour. We know how to prevent these deaths – there are existing effective medical and surgical interventions that are relatively inexpensive. 

The course is designed to cover the five major causes of maternal death, as well as newborn resuscitation and early newborn care. It focuses on the signal functions of CEOC (9) and BEOC (7). 

To reduce maternal mortality it is important that all women have access to maternal health care services, particularly skilled attendance at birth and timely access to Essential (or Emergency) Obstetric Care (EOC) when an obstetric complication occurs. 

Two levels of EOC can be distinguished: BEOC and CEOC. 

Basic essential obstetric care (BEOC) – 7 signal functions:

1. Parenteral antibiotics

2. Parenteral oxytocics

3. Parenteral anticonvulsants

4. Manual removal of a retained placenta

5. Removal of retained products of conception by manual vacuum aspiration

6. Assisted vaginal delivery (vacuum extraction)

7. Resuscitation of the newborn (using bag and mask)

Comprehensive Essential Obstetric Care (CEOC) – 9 signal functions:

All 7 BEOC functions (above)

8. Caesarean section

9. Blood transfusion