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Research Article | Open Access
Volume 11 2019 | None
The Impact of Maternal Age on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Dr Jhansi CH B
Pages: 335-342
Abstract
Introduction: Maternal age is a critical factor influencing pregnancy outcomes, with both younger and older age groups facing distinct challenges. While teenage pregnancies are associated with increased risks of maternal and fetal complications, advanced maternal age is linked to age-related obstetric risks. This cross-sectional study aims to explore the impact of maternal age on pregnancy outcomes, providing valuable insights for targeted interventions and improved maternal and neonatal health. Methods: This study utilized a cross-sectional design, analyzing obstetric records of women who delivered at a tertiary care hospital between January 2015 and December 2018. Data were extracted from electronic medical records, including maternal demographics, obstetric history, pregnancy complications, mode of delivery, and neonatal outcomes. Maternal age was categorized into three groups: teenage (≤ 19 years), prime reproductive age (20-34 years), and advanced maternal age (≥ 35 years). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the demographic characteristics of the study population, while inferential statistics, such as chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis, were employed to assess associations between maternal age and pregnancy outcomes. Results: A total of 5,000 obstetric records were included in the analysis, with 15% of women categorized as teenagers, 70% as prime reproductive age, and 15% as advanced maternal age. Teenage mothers were more likely to experience inadequate prenatal care (p < 0.001), preterm birth (p < 0.05), and low birth weight infants (p < 0.01) compared to older age groups. In contrast, advanced maternal age was associated with higher rates of gestational diabetes (p < 0.05), hypertensive disorders (p < 0.01), and cesarean deliveries (p < 0.001). Neonates born to teenage mothers had increased odds of admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2-2.5), while infants of advanced maternal age had higher rates of macrosomia (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.5-3.5) and congenital anomalies (OR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.0-2.2). Conclusion: This cross-sectional study highlights the significant impact of maternal age on pregnancy outcomes, with distinct patterns of risks observed across different age groups. Teenage pregnancies are associated with increased risks of preterm birth and low birth weight, while advanced maternal age is linked to higher rates of maternal comorbidities and cesarean deliveries. Tailored healthcare interventions targeting specific age groups are essential for optimizing maternal and neonatal outcomes. Further research is warranted to explore underlying mechanisms and develop targeted strategies for mitigating age-related risks in pregnancy.
Keywords
Maternal age is a critical factor influencing pregnancy outcomes, with both younger and older age groups facing distinct challenges.
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