A Case Control study to assess the Determinants of Preterm Deliveries among Mothers in Selected Districts of Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Child birth is an important existential life event. A Case control study was conducted to assess the determinants of preterm deliveries among mothers in selected districts of Tamil Nadu. OBJECTIVES: 1. To find out the prevalence of pre term deliveries among mothers. 2. To determine the demographic risk factors by comparing the risk factors between cases and controls. 3. To determine the maternal risk factors by comparing the risk factors between cases and controls. 4. To determine the environmental risk factors by comparing the risk factors between cases and controls. 5. To determine the neonatal risk factors by comparing the risk factors between cases and controls. METHODS: The conceptual framework of the present study was developed based on the Betty Newman s model (2015). It views the individual who is subject to the impact of stressors, reaction to stress and factors of reconstitution. i.e., various risk factors are assessed in order to prevent the mothers from its complications. MAJOR FINDINGS: Majority of the mothers were aged 20-30 years (82%, 82%), their family income was between 10001-20,000 (84.5%, 57.8%), were from nuclear family background (64%, 70.8%), type of marriage was non consanguineous marriage (96%, 99.5%), in cases and controls respectively. Around half of them were Hindus (51.5%, 41%), were moderate workers (60.5%, 50%), from urban area (50.5%, 42.5%), in cases and controls respectively. CONCLUSION: Overall, the findings revealed that, History of previous preterm delivery, Preeclampsia, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Pregnancy Induced Hypertension, Hyperemesis Gravidarum, Polyhydramnios, Premature rupture of membrane, Overweight/obese and long working hours with prolonged standing were found to be significant risk factors. Health care professionals including nurses play vital role in utilization of maternal services by mothers, early recognition and management of these high-risk conditions among pregnant women which will be helpful in reduction of Preterm birth rates and its complications.