Frequency of Risk Factors of Preterm Labour: A Cross Sectional Study

Résumé fourni par la source

Background: Preterm labor is a major obstetric complication contributing significantly to neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is associated with multiple maternal and fetal risk factors, including hypertension, infections, anemia, and antepartum hemorrhage. Early identification of these factors is essential for prevention and improved pregnancy outcomes. Objective: To determine the frequency of risk factors associated with preterm labor in a tertiary care hospital setting. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting and Duration: Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, conducted from 31 October 2024 to 30 April 2025. Methods: A total of 190 pregnant women with preterm labor were enrolled using consecutive non-probability sampling. Data were collected using a structured proforma, including demographic details and risk factors such as hypertension, urinary tract infection, antepartum hemorrhage, and anemia. Diagnosis was based on clinical assessment and laboratory investigations. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, and frequencies and percentages were calculated. Results: Hypertension was the most common risk factor observed in 21.1% of patients, followed by urinary tract infection in 13.7%, antepartum hemorrhage in 11.1%, and anemia in 9.5%. These findings highlight the significant contribution of preventable maternal conditions to preterm labor. Conclusion: Hypertension and maternal infections are the leading risk factors for preterm labor in the studied population. Early screening and management during antenatal care can reduce associated complications and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.