Injury deaths, suicides and homicides associated with pregnancy, Finland 1987-2000

Background: Only few studies have been carried out on the relationship between pregnancy and deaths from external causes. Methods: Information on deaths from external causes among women aged 15 - 49 years in Finland in 1987 - 2000 ( n= 5299) was linked to three national health registers to identify pregnancy- associated deaths ( n= 212). Results: The mortality rate for women during pregnancy and within 1 year of pregnancy termination from external causes was lower than mortality from external causes among non- pregnant women ( relative risk 0.79; 95% confidence interval 0.69 - 0.91). Owing to elevated suicide and homicide rates, however, an increased risk was observed for women after abortions, especially in the age group of 15 - 24 years. Conclusions: The low rate of deaths from external causes suggests the protective effect of childbirth, but the elevated risk after a terminated pregnancy needs to be recognized in the provision of health care and social services.