Maternal Care Disparities: Impact Of Pregnancy Profiles, Socioeconomic Factors, and Age on Maternal Outcomes

Abstract

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the impact of pregnancy profiles, socioeconomic factors, and age on maternal at teaching hospitals in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. METHODOLOGY This descriptive-exploratory/qualitative study was conducted at the genealogical outside-patient department of the Mardan Medical Complex, with the approval of the ethics committee. A total of 1187 patients attended the complex between January 2021 and January 2022. Informed consent was obtained, and a comprehensive history and physical examination were conducted using a pre-designed proforma. Patients meeting specific criteria, such as gestational age >36 weeks, singleton pregnancies, and absence of maternal co-morbidities, were included. Exclusion criteria encompassed conditions such as antepartum haemorrhage and fetal anomalies. Data analysis was performed using SPSS-24 version, ensuring the confidentiality and anonymity of participants. RESULTSOut % of 1187 patients, 48% had previous pregnancies (multiparous), while 52% were experiencing their first pregnancy (primiparous). Gestational age distribution showed that 45% of cases fell within the 36-38 week range, and 55% were between 39-40 weeks. Regarding booking status, 29% of patients were booked, while 71% were unbooked. Finally, the socioeconomic status analysis indicates that 61% of cases were above the poverty line, while 39% were below. These findings highlight important factors such as previous pregnancies, gestational age, booking status, and socioeconomic status that can influence maternal care and outcomes. Among the different age groups, the <20 age group had the highest percentage of spontaneous deliveries (31%), while the >30 age group had the highest percentage of cesarean sections (25%). Induced labour rates were relatively consistent across age groups. Not being in labour was more prevalent in the 25-30 and >30 age groups. CONCLUSION The findings highlight that important factors such as previous pregnancies, gestational age, booking status, and socioeconomic status can influence maternal care and outcomes.