Obstetric uterine ruptures in a rural area in Zaïre.

Uterine ruptures with their deplorable sequelae constitute a major obstetrical problem in the rural areas of Africa. The maternal and perinatal mortality remain high as a result, mainly due to the lack of early and adequate care for these patients. Grande-multiparity is one of the major predisposing factors. Prevention must necessarily include the availability of family planning advice, improved organization of and access to maternal care, and good supervision during delivery and the post-partum period. The general improvement of the overall socio-economic condition is a pre-condition to the improvement of access to care.