Under-registry of maternal death in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico (1997-2001)

To analyze the subregistry of maternal deaths in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. The subregistry was studied using descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective approaches. Acts and death certificates of women aged 9 to 50 years that passed away in five years (1997-2001) were reviewed. Additionally, an interview with their relatives was conducted plus a revision of clinical files and reports of autopsies. The maternal deaths were classified according to the criteria of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (tenth revision). Maternal deaths found during the period of study were compared with those reported by the official organism in order to detect their subregistry. 21 cases of maternal deaths were found during the study period, from them 16 were notified officially. The subregistry of maternal deaths was 24% in the five analyzed years. Maternal mortality continues to be a public health problem in urban areas, like the city of Merida. It is necessary to design strategies to avoid the subregistry and allow the reduction of maternal deaths.