Evaluation Of Obstetric Determinants Of Postpartum, Maternal And Neonatal Outcomes In Urban And Rural Settings
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.67440/ahj.v21i6s.1784Keywords:
Obstetric determinants, Caesarean section, Postpartum complications, Neonatal outcomes, Urban–rural comparison, Antenatal care, Maternal health, Perinatal outcomes.Abstract
Objective: The study addresses maternal and neonatal health disparities between urban and rural healthcare settings, focusing on obstetric determinants and their impact on postpartum maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Methods: Conducted over six months, this cross-sectional study involved 316 delivered mothers from selected urban and rural hospitals. Data collection encompassed socio-demographic details, obstetric history, delivery characteristics, postpartum complications, and neonatal outcomes. Statistical analysis included multivariable logistic regression and Chi-square tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The prevalence of caesarean sections was higher in urban areas (65%) versus rural areas (59%). Postpartum complications were more frequent among urban mothers (31%) compared to rural mothers (25%). Breastfeeding difficulties were reported more in urban mothers (24%) than rural mothers (16%). Neonatal complications were similar across both settings, occurring in 24% of cases. Multivariable logistic regression showed that in the urban population, having more than eight antenatal care visits and was significantly associated with caesarean delivery (AOR = 3.91; p = 0.020). Body Mass Index was significantly linked to caesarean section and postpartum complications in both settings. Mode of delivery was significantly connected with perineal trauma and pelvic floor issues. However, place of residence alone was not significantly associated with most maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates that obstetric determinants significantly influence maternal and neonatal outcomes. Although caesarean sections were higher in urban settings, overall neonatal complications were comparable between urban and rural populations. Strengthening evidence-based obstetric practices, optimizing antenatal care utilization, and promoting appropriate mode of delivery may help reduce preventable maternal and neonatal morbidity in both healthcare settings.
