Kampot Province Reports Maternal Death During Childbirth, Suspected Amniotic Fluid Embolism

Kampot Provincial Health Department on September 25, 2026, issued a clarification regarding the death of a 30-year-old woman during childbirth at Chhuk Referral Hospital in Kampot Province on September 22, 2026. The department stated that the cause of death was Amniotic Fluid Embolism, leading to pulmonary artery obstruction. The deceased was a resident of Angkor Pok village, Damnak Sokrum commune, Dong Thorn district, Kampot Province. She was brought to Chhuk Referral Hospital by her family at 9:20 AM on September 22 for delivery. Medical examinations revealed she was pregnant with her fourth child and had a history of one miscarriage. Upon arrival, the vital signs of the mother and the fetal heartbeat were normal, indicating she was in labor at full term. According to the statement, at 1:11 PM, her water broke, and her cervix had dilated to 3 centimeters. Medical staff continued to monitor and provide treatment. By 2:00 PM, her cervix had dilated to 4 centimeters, and the vital signs of both mother and baby remained normal. However, approximately 20 minutes later, the woman suddenly lost consciousness, exhibiting symptoms of cyanosis on her face and extremities. Medical personnel initiated emergency resuscitation, including providing respiratory support, oxygen, and regular suctioning of secretions. Given the patient's critical condition, the medical team explained the situation to the family and decided to transfer her to Kampot Provincial Hospital at 3:10 PM via ambulance, accompanied by a medical team and midwife for continued care en route. Upon arrival at Kampot Provincial Hospital at 4:10 PM, the woman was in critical and unconscious condition. The hospital's medical team performed advanced life support measures, including cardiac resuscitation and intubation. Simultaneously, to maximize the chances of saving the mother, a decision was made for an emergency Cesarean section to deliver the baby. Despite all efforts, due to the severity of her condition, the woman passed away at 4:40 PM on September 22, 2026. The Kampot Provincial Health Department reiterated that the cause of death was Amniotic Fluid Embolism and extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Security