Journal of Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences University (Apr 2021)
Impact of Antenatal Maternal Morbidity on Birth Weight and Gestational Age of the Baby
Abstract
Background: Maternal morbidity is one of the important risk factors associated with Low Birth Weight (LBW) and preterm births. LBW (birth weight < 2500 g) and prematurity (gestational age <37 weeks) are major contributors of neonatal and infant mortality and morbidity worldwide. Prematurity and LBW are priority public health concerns as both have ongoing impact on the individuals, families, the community as well as on the health system. Maternal risk factors for LBW and preterm births include presence of malnutrition and medical illnesses like anemia, pre-eclampsia, pregnancy induced hypertension etc. Aim and Objectives: To study the maternal morbidity in LBW and preterm births. Material and Methods: All consecutive eligible women were registered from 1st November 2013 to 30th November 2015.There were 2028 pregnant women who, were followed up during Antenatal Care (ANC) period and the outcome of the pregnancy was noted. Only the pregnant women giving birth to live born singleton babies were included in the study to find out co-relation between antenatal morbidity of the mother during pregnancy and the birth weight and the gestational age of the baby. Thus, the statistical analysis was done for 1876 mothers and babies only. Results: Among maternal factors anemia was present in 62.8% pregnant women at registration and was significantly associated with LBW and preterm birth in this study. Out of all conditions related to pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, hyperemesis gravidarum, Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH), poly hydramnios, Ante Partum Hemorrhage (APH) and type of diet were associated with LBW and preterm birth. Conclusion: Anemia at registration could be prevented by care of adolescent girls by ensuring good nutrition and giving iron and folic acid supplementations. Good antenatal care and timely identification and management of maternal morbidities will go a long way in preventing LBW and preterm births.
