Newborn growth parameters in babies of working and nonworking women: A comparative study

Abstract

Objective: To compare neonatal growth parameters in babies of working and non-working women.Method: This is a hospital based comparative study conducted on pregnant women between 18-35 years of age. Thirty working mothers and 30 nonworking mothers were selected during their antenatal visit to the hospital. The newborn growth parameters recorded after birth were statistically analysed. Results:In working women mean birth weight, length and head circumference were 2.84kg, 51.8cm and 34.3cm and in non-working women 2.81kg (p >0.05), 48.6cm (p <0.01) and 33.3cm (p <0.01) respectively. Conclusions:The lengths and head circumferences of babies born to working mothers were significantly more compared to those of babies born to non-working mothers but no difference was found with respect to birth weights. IntroductionIn developing countries, an increase has been noted in the percentage of occupationally active women at reproductive age. The life style of a woman during pregnancy exerts a considerable effect on the course of pregnancy and the development of a fetus before and after birth. Majority of working women are worried about the effect of stress and duration of work on their pregnancy outcome. A study done on the effects of selected occupational factors on the