Impact of Maternal Hypertension on Pregnancy and Delivery Outcomes

Raheela Rani Junejo; Firdous Khatoon; Rabia Waseem Bhand; Saira Dars; Warisha Durrani; Geeta Bai

Raheela Rani Junejo Consultant Gynecologist Department of Gynaecology, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences Hyderabad/Jamshoro
Firdous Khatoon Consultant Gynecologist, Sindh Government Hospital, Hyderabad
Rabia Waseem Bhand Consultant Gynecologist, Shaikh Zaid Women Hospital, Larkana
Saira Dars Assistant Professor Department of Gynaecology, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences Hyderabad/Jamshoro
Warisha Durrani Medical Student Department of Gynaecology, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences Hyderabad/Jamshoro
Geeta Bai Registrar Department of Gynaecology, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences Hyderabad/Jamshoro)

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the impact of hypertension on pregnancy outcomes, focusing on the rates of caesarean delivery, preterm births, and neonatal birth weights. It seeks to provide a clearer understanding of how maternal hypertension influences these outcomes.

Methodology: A retrospective cohort study was conducted over two years (2022-2023) at Liaquat University Hospital. The study included 2,000 pregnant women, with 400 diagnosed with hypertension. Data were collected from hospital records, including demographic details, medical history, and pregnancy outcomes. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariable logistic regression.

Results: The prevalence of hypertension among the study participants was 20%. Hypertensive women had a higher rate of caesarean deliveries (60% vs. 35%), increased incidence of preterm births (18% vs. 10%), and lower neonatal birth weights (average 2800g vs. 3200g) compared to non-hypertensive women. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that hypertension significantly predicted caesarean delivery (OR=2.5), preterm birth (OR=1.9), and lower birth weight (Î²=-400g).

Conclusion: The study highlights a significant association between maternal hypertension and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including higher caesarean delivery rates, increased preterm births, and reduced neonatal birth weights. These findings underscore the importance of effective management of hypertension during pregnancy to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.