A Study of Neonatal Outcome Associated with Preterm Birth in A Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION:

Preterm birth is the most significant problem in current obstetric practice and according to WHO is the direct cause accounting for 24% of neonatal deaths.

OBJECTIVES:

To assess frequency and neonatal outcome in patients with preterm birth.

METHODOLOGY:

A prospective descriptive study was conducted at Gynae Unit III Jinnah Hospital Lahore over a period of one year (from 1^st July 2011 to 30^th June included in the study. For data collection two groups were made depending upon duration of pregnancy. Group l was allotted to women who were pregnant 2012) in collaboration with Paediatrics department. All labouring women who presented after 28 weeks  and before 37 completed weeks of gestation were less ( < ) than 32 weeks and Group ll was allotted to women who were pregnant more (>)   than 32 weeks of gestation. Data was collected and analyzed by SPSS version 16.

RESULTS:

During the study period total 5171 deliveries took place. Out of 5171 neonates born, 460 were preterm making the frequency of 8.86%. Majority 62.82% were > 32 weeks of gestation, 67.39% were male, 57.60% were > 1.5 kg by weight, 57.17% delivered vaginally and 80.86% were born alive. Neonatal morbidity was more common in neonates less than 32 weeks of gestation. Perinatal mortality was 10.48% in this study.

CONCLUSION:

Neonatal morbidity and mortality is more common in neonates less than 32 weeks of gestation, this can be improved by improving prenatal health services and advanced neonatal care.

KEY WORDS:

Preterm birth, Neonatal morbidity, Neonatal mortality.