Maternal Risk Factors and Birth Outcomes of Pregnancies Complicated by Preeclampsia: A Case–control Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Central India

Abstract

Background: Preeclampsia contributes substantially to maternal and perinatal mortality. Reduction of maternal and perinatal mortality is a global priority, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like India. Preeclampsia is often overlooked during pregnancy and emerges as a significant contributor to mortality if not addressed proactively. Hence, the present study planned to explore maternal risk factors and birth outcomes in women with preeclampsia admitted for delivery in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: The present case–control study, including 100 matched cases and a similar number of controls, was carried out. For cases, pregnant women admitted for delivery, diagnosed with preeclampsia, while controls included all pregnant women admitted for delivery without preeclampsia were interviewed. A structured interview questionnaire, patient documents, and maternal and child protection (MCP) cards were used for data collection. Results: Family history of hypertension (odds ratio [OR] = 2.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.65–5.31), history of chronic hypertension (OR = 6.00, 95% CI = 1.97–18.27), and primiparity (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 0.72–2.26) were significantly associated with preeclampsia. Preterm birth occurred in 58.1% of cases and 41.8% of controls. No associations were found between preeclampsia and the mode of delivery, gender, and birth weight of the baby. Conclusion: Women with a family history of hypertension, primiparous women, and those with a chronic history of hypertension have more tendency to adverse consequences of pregnancy and its outcomes like preterm births. Recognizing high-risk cases promptly and implementing effective management strategies are essential for planning and executing women’s health programs ultimately enhancing nationwide maternal and child health-care delivery.