Which of the following is NOT one of the leading causes of maternal death?

Myocardial infarction is not one of the leading causes of maternal death primarily because maternal mortality rates are more closely associated with obstetric-specific complications rather than cardiovascular conditions. The main causes of maternal death include direct causes related to pregnancy and delivery, such as pulmonary embolism, hemorrhage, and gestational hypertension, which are significantly elevated during the perinatal period due to physiological changes and potential complications.

While myocardial infarction can occur during pregnancy, it is less common compared to the other listed conditions, and its occurrence is often influenced by pre-existing factors such as maternal age, obesity, or other cardiovascular conditions, rather than being a direct consequence of the pregnancy itself. This distinction is crucial in understanding the specific risks that are prevalent in maternal health and the emphasis on managing and monitoring pregnancy-related complications to prevent maternal morbidity and mortality.