In 2005 in East Timor, there were 506 deaths per 100,000 live births, and then in 2010 it was 317 deaths per 100,000 live births. The maternal mortality rate in Australia in 2012–2014 was 6.8 deaths per 100,000 women giving birth, which is among the lowest rates in the world.
Some of the reasons for such a high level of maternal mortality is the low utilisation of skilled assistance for pre-natal care, birth and post-natal care, as well as infection and postpartum haemorrhage. Midwives East Timor Australia is helping to change this through providing financial support, training and resources.
Key Areas of Expenditure
Maternity Ambulance - 4WD Toyota Troop-carrier has been provided to Remexio in Aile District, and is providing transport for pregnant and labouring women to and from the Skilled Midwife for labour and birth, to help reduce the very high maternal and neonatal mortality rates. This was donated in 2010 and continues to make a difference for women in Remexio and beyond.
Maternity Kits - These contain items of clothing for mother and baby and are given to them when they birth with a Skilled Midwife. These items are purchased in East Timor and assembled, and also include sustainable hygiene kits for the new mums. (Cost approx AUD$20-$30).
Equipment and Manikins - we provide equipment for Midwives - BP machines and stethoscopes, fetal dopplers, equipment for the birth, as well as manikins for learning labs on newborn resuscitation and birth. We have also provided portable ultrasounds for remote areas, for the Midwives to be able to assess problems that may necessitate the women being transferred to hospital for birth.
