[Status and development of peripartal mortality in East Germany].

Based on records drawn up by the Special Commission on Maternal Death Prevention, the article gives a description of the development of the peripartal mortality in the GDR during the years 1952-1987. Special regard is paid to expert opinions on the avoidability of maternal deaths and the causes of maternal mortality determined by the Special Commissions. In addition, the article analyzes all peripartal deaths recorded in the years 1984-1987 by considering the respective ages and places of death.