St Martin’s Hospital to stabilize blood bank

As part of the Christmas festivities, 13 people donated blood to St Martin’s De Porres Catholic Hospital, at Eikwe in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region.

The donation became necessary following the dwindling of the blood bank by 10 per cent of its 100 points capacity.

It was organised by the Hospital in conjunction with Ghana Health Services and the District Assembly.

Speaking to Ghana News Agency, Madam Elizabeth Corney, District Director of Health Services, said five out of the nine maternal deaths recorded in the year were due to blood loss.

This, she said had necessitated the periodic donation of blood in order to maintain the 100 points capacity of the blood bank for the hospital to deal with emergencies.

Touching on the causes of maternal deaths in the area, Madam Corney mentioned maternal bleeding resulting from the use of herbs to lessen pain during delivery.

This, she explained results in ruptured tissues which opens the vagina.

The phenomenon, which is very commonplace in the area, is the main cause of ante, intra and post partum bleeding among expectant mothers, Madam Corney said.

Source: GNA