Evaluate The Maternal Hemoglobin and Birth Weight of Newborn: A Tertiary Care Hospital Based Study.

Abstract

Background: Maternal anemia in pregnancy is common and has several deleterious effects on the health of the mother and the fetus. Maternal anemia is an important risk factor for LBW babies and preterm babies. The birth weight of an infant is the most important determinant of its chance of survival health growth and development. The prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) is higher in Asia than elsewhere. Low birth weight is a major determinant of mortality, morbidity and disability in infancy and childhood and has a longterm impact on health outcomes in adult life.

Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the maternal hemoglobin and birth weight of newborn in a tertiary care centre.

Materials and Methods: To assess the relationship between maternal hemoglobin concentration with neonatal birth weight. This retrospective study, was undertaken at  S.M.M.H. Government Medical College, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and F.H. Medical college Agra, Uttar Pradesh, Bharat,  for duration of 12 months (July 2022-June 2023).  Relevant data of mother and baby pair was obtained from medical record department.

Results and Observations: There was significant correlation between maternal haemoglobin and neonatal birth weight (p value<0.01, R value-0.25), among low haemoglobin group, LBW was most common with maternal haemoglobin <11g/dl. However maximum LBW babies were under group with maternal haemoglobin 14-16 g/dl.

Conclusion: There was significant correlation between maternal haemoglobin, birth weight and gestational age. The trend shows decrease in birth weight with maternal haemoglobin >14 g/dl, should caution us regarding the use of iron supplementation in mothers with haemoglobin above 14g/dl.