Frequency of Low Birth Weight in Babies Born to Anemic Pregnant Women at Term Gestation; A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

OBJECTIVES To assess the potential impact of maternal health on the frequency of low birth weight in newborns of anemic pregnant women at term gestation. METHODOLOGY It is a cross-sectional (Descriptive) study in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, from 1st August 2022 to 31st July 2023. We recruited 169  pregnant ladies of any gravidity, 18-45 years of age at term gestation  (37 ± 0 weeks to 41 ± 6 weeks), who presented with anemia and were included in this study. Patients who refused to participate in the study or had any other medical disorder leading to low birth weight, i.e., pregnancy-induced hypertension, chronic kidney disease, antiphospholipid syndrome, autoimmune conditions, and uteroplacental insufficiency, were excluded from the study. RESULTSOne hundred sixty-nine patients were enrolled in this study; 45  patients were between 18 and 27 years of age, 80 were between 28 and 37 years, and 44 were recorded at 37-45. Mean and Standard Deviations for age was 32 Years ± 6.68, for gestational Age 38 Weeks ±1.23, for Parity 3±1.31, for Hemoglobin Level it was 10.7 g/L ±14.95, and for Birth Weight, it was recorded as 2500 grams ± 279.24. The frequency of low birth weight was recorded in 36 (21.30% ) newborns of anemic pregnant women at term gestation. CONCLUSION The prevalence of low birth weight in newborns of anemic pregnant women at term was found to be high. A comprehensive approach regarding health education and anemia management in pregnant women is required.