Factors influencing early perinatal mortality in a rural district hospital.

Early perinatal mortality (EPM) was prospectively analysed in a rural District Hospital during a 4 month period. 2,171 deliveries were recorded with an early perinatal mortality rate (EPMR) of 53/1000. Factors significantly influencing EPM included maternal age, education, marital and socio-economic status. Antenatal care, gestation at delivery, birthweight, pregnancy and labour complications were other significant factors. A maternal mortality rate of 2.8/1000 was also recorded. The study findings and possible lines of intervention are discussed.