Maternal mortality in Sweden 1955-1974.

A survey of the causes of maternal death in Sweden during the years 1955-74 is presented. 296 cases, where autopsy has been performed in 94%, have been reviewed. 219 have been classified as obstetrical deaths and 77 as non-obstetrical. During the period an almost uniform lowering of the maternal death rate occurred. The explanation is a probable improvement in the quality of the medical care given in the hospitals and the antenatal clinics.