The Impact Of Maternal Age On Perinatal Outcomes And Neonatal Health Complications

Abstract

Background: The maternal age is one of the most important factors that determine the facets of perinatal outcomes, and both adolescent and old age pregnancies have been linked to higher odds of developing complications in pregnancies and childbirth. Such risks lead to poor maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess how the maternal age influences the perinatal and neonatal health complications in various age groups. Methodology: The study was an analytical cross-sectional study of 700 pregnant women who were divided in to the following categories: <20 years, 2034 years, and 35 years. Hospital records and interviews were used as sources of data. Outcome measures covered antenatal care use, preterm birth, underweight births, infant death rate as well as maternal complications. Chi squared tests and logistic regression with a significance value p<0.05 were used to perform statistical analysis. Findings: ANC attendance was highest among women aged 20–34 years (75%) compared to <20 years (50%) and ≥35 years (68%) (p < 0.01). The low weight of birth was higher in less than 20 years (25 percent) and age category 35 years and above (18 percent). More younger (6.5) and older mothers (5.8%).  Conclusion: Maternal age is a risk factor with a significant impact on perinatal outcomes and age-based maternal healthcare.