Citation Information :
Konda KR, Phukan PK, Baruah A. A Tale of Stillbirths at a Tertiary Care Center in Northeast India. J South Asian Feder Obs Gynae 2023; 15 (4):399-403.
Aims and objectives: To evaluate socioeconomic, demographic, and fetomaternal factors associated with stillbirths.
Materials and methods: An observational study conducted in Assam Medical College, India, over 1 year, included 542 stillbirths between 24 and 42 weeks of gestation. Continuous variables were studied using Mann–Whitney U/Independent t-test, other variables using Chi-square/Fisher's exact test as appropriate.
Results: Stillbirth rate (SBR) at our institution was 52.41/1000 births. Antepartum stillbirths were 67%. Mean age of mothers was 24.75 ± 4.78 years (p > 0.05). Most belonged to rural place of residence (62.36%, p = 0.0013), lower socioeconomic status (31%, p = 0.046), lacked regular antenatal checkups (65.31% unbooked, p = 0.0142), and traveled long distances to reach our center (47.97% traveled >20 km). Obstetrical (28%) and hypertensive (26%) complications were commonest causes (p < 0.05). Most were multigravida (55.34%, p > 0.05). Singleton pregnancies dominated at 92.62%, with mostly preterm (49.45%, p = 0.009), mean birth weight of 2015 gm (p = 0.0023), and 56.46% male fetuses (p > 0.05). Maceration noted in 15.87% (p = 0.0002).
Conclusion: Sociodemographic factors play an important role in stillbirths. Health education, strengthening peripheral health services, and proper care for reproductive age women can go a long way in prevention. To tackle stillbirths, one needs to detect and manage risk factors right from preconceptional period. The patient should be counseled regarding the importance of regular antenatal checkups and need for immediate care in case of appearance of red flag signs.
Clinical significance: Most of the stillbirths may have a common pathology behind their development. Hence, detailed evaluation, classification, and regular review of the causes will help better management and prevention of stillbirths in at-risk patients.
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