In the Confidential Enquiries into Maternal Deaths (India / CEMACH UK), which is consistently the leading cause of direct maternal mortality in India?

• A Sepsis
• B Hypertensive disorders (pre-eclampsia/eclampsia)
• C Postpartum haemorrhage ✓
• D Thromboembolism

Explanation

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is consistently the leading cause of direct maternal mortality in India and globally in low-to-middle income countries, accounting for approximately 27–30% of maternal deaths. Pre-eclampsia/eclampsia is the second most common direct cause (20%). In high-income countries (UK MBRRACE), thromboembolism historically led, though sepsis and haemorrhage have increased. In NEET PG context, PPH remains the single most important preventable cause of maternal death in India.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.