The Indonesian approach to reduce maternal mortality

Abstract

BackgroundBlood transfusions are an important part of health care in Indonesia where the maternal mortality is 370. Haemorrhage (30·3%), hypertension (27·1%) and infection (7·3%) are the main causes of maternal mortality, with 78% of deaths occurring within 48 h after delivery. Unavailability of blood contributes to 9% of maternal deaths.AimsTo describe the national strategy for ensuring availability of safe blood as a means to reduce maternal mortality. The Ministry of Health Decree on collaboration between the Primary Health Centre (PHC) and Blood Centre (BC) on Blood Services was issued in 2015 to increase people's awareness in donating blood for every pregnant woman in the village. The PHC will do donor recruitment and selection, blood group and haemoglobin test, and physical check of the donor. Four eligible donors for every pregnant woman will be requested to donate blood at the BCs on 7–10 days before the childbirth time. The excess donated blood that is not used by intended pregnant woman will increase the availability of blood at the BC for other patients.ConclusionIndonesia has high maternal mortality that mostly due to haemorrhage. The unavailability of blood contributes to maternal mortality. Increasing people's awareness and willingness to donating blood voluntarily is expected to increase blood supply and improve management of postnatal haemorrhage.