National maternal mortality ratio for Jordan, 2007–2008

ObjectiveTo estimate the number of maternal deaths per 100 000 live births during 2007–2008 among Jordanian women; to identify the causes of maternal mortality; and to compare the results with those of the last report for 1995–1996.MethodsReproductive-age mortality study of maternal deaths among women aged 15–49 years in Jordan in 2007–2008.ResultsAmong 1406 identified deaths of reproductive-aged women, 76 maternal deaths were identified out of 397 588 live births, for a maternal mortality ratio of 19.1 deaths per 100 000 live births. Forty-three (56.6%) deaths were attributable to hemorrhage, thrombosis and thromboembolism, and sepsis. Avoidable factors were present in 53.9% of women, 52.6% had substandard care, and 31.5% had 3 or fewer antenatal visits. Of those with available information on family planning, only 29.4% had ever used any form of contraception.ConclusionsMaternal deaths in Jordan are declining. The maternal mortality ratio of 19.1 deaths per 100 000 live births reported for 2007–2008 showed a remarkable reduction of 53.9% achieved in the 12 years since the 1995–1996 report (a 4.5% annual reduction), which is approaching the 75% reduction recommended by Millennium Development Goal 5.