A study on fetomaternal outcome in late preterm labour (34 weeks – 36 weeks 6 days) in a tertiary care centre, Rajkot
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20261285Keywords:
Late preterm, Maternal outcome, Neonatal jaundice, Pregnancy, RajkotAbstract
Background: Preterm birth, defined as birth before 37 completed weeks of gestation, presents significant risks for short- and long-term health outcomes. This study evaluates risk factors, delivery modes and feto-maternal outcomes in late preterm labor.
Methods: This 1.5 years prospective observational study was conducted on 300 women delivering between 34 weeks and 36 weeks 6 days at P.D.U Medical College, Rajkot, from February 2023 to July 2024. Inclusion criteria involved spontaneous labor; induced labors and specific co-morbidities were excluded.
Results: The majority of patients were under 25 years (62%) and nulliparous (39.3%). Common risk factors included Gestational HTN (14.6%), UTI (11.3%) and prior abortions (17.33%). Most deliveries were vaginal (85.3%). Neonatal jaundice was the leading cause of NICU admission (8.33%). Low APGAR scores (<7) at 5 minutes were observed in 23.66% of neonates.
Conclusions: Late preterm labor is significantly associated with nulliparity and hypertensive disorders. While vaginal delivery is common, there is a high requirement for NICU care, particularly for jaundice and respiratory support. Collaboration between obstetricians and neonatologists is essential to improve outcomes.
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