National Audit of Severe Maternal Morbidity (Severe Maternal Morbidity Audit)

Designated severe maternal morbidity coordinators within all maternity units collate and submit data on women experiencing specific severe maternal morbidities and /or who require a higher level of care to the NPEC using a specific, detailed notification form.

Purpose: To investigate the incidence and cause of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) in Ireland. Further, to investigate the location of maternal care for women requiring higher levels of care. This will assist in informing clinical practice, public health interventions and counselling of prospective mothers.

As major obstetric haemorrhage (MOH) continues to be the leading cause of SMM the NPEC commenced the MOH audit nationally in 2021.

Coverage: National Audit all 19 maternity units are participating.

Data collection commenced in 2011 and is ongoing.