Fetomaternal Outcomes of Pregnancy among Women suffering from Chronic hypertension

Abstract

Objective: To observe the association of chronic hypertension in pregnant women on their health and fetal outcome. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out from September 2019 to September 2020 upon a sample of 183 consenting pregnant women (chosen via non-probability – consecutive sampling) aged 20 – 35 years admitted to the study setting via OPD and emergency at Gynae Unit IV, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, Jamshoro (LUMHS). The data obtained was recorded on structured questionnaire comprising of inquiries pertaining to basic biodata, sociodemographic details, inferences obtained from history, clinical examination, and blood pressure. Data obtained was analyzed using SPSS V. 21.0. Results: The mean age of the women was 24 years ±3 SD. The mean gestational age was 38 weeks (±1 SD). A majority of the participants hailed from an urban background and most presented as booked elective cases (normal delivery more often than cesarean delivery). Chronic hypertension (mean value 134/92) was present among 38.8% of the study participants. Poor maternal and fetal outcome were encountered among patients with chronic hypertension. Conclusion: A heavy burden of chronic hypertension was unearthed by this study which consisted of around 2/5th of whole sample. Adverse maternal outcomes including postpartum hemorrhage, eclampsia & spontaneous abortion and fetal (low birth weight & neonatal deaths complications were strongly associated with chronic hypertension.