Perinatal Outcome and Preventable Causes of Morbidity and Mortality in Eclampsia: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study in a Tertiary Hospital in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Eclampsia poses a substantial threat to perinatal health in developing countries, with Bangladesh experiencing a notable impact on infant well-being. This cross-sectional observational study, conducted at Enam Medical College Hospital, Savar, Dhaka, aimed to investigate perinatal outcomes in eclampsia patients and identify preventable causes of perinatal mortality and morbidity associated with this condition. The study period spanned from June 2015 to July 2017, with a focus on understanding the specific factors contributing to adverse perinatal events in this population.

Methods: A total of 155 eclampsia patients were enrolled in the study, resulting in the delivery of 161 babies, including six sets of twins. The study employed a comprehensive observational approach, assessing maternal and fetal conditions to analyze their correlation with perinatal outcomes. Data collection and analysis were conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the tertiary hospital, employing standard protocols and statistical methods to derive meaningful insights.

Results: The study revealed a perinatal death rate of 27.32%, with stillbirth accounting for 15.52% and early neonatal death for 11.80%. In contrast, 84.47% of babies were born healthy. Among live-born neonates, 27.94% experienced jaundice, while 30.88% had no complications. Prematurity emerged as a significant contributor to perinatal loss in eclampsia cases. The findings underscore the critical role of early referral of eclampsia patients, the implementation of timely resuscitative measures, and improved neonatal care as potential avenues to enhance perinatal outcomes.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of addressing stillbirth as a predominant component of perinatal death in eclampsia cases. Prematurity was identified as a key factor contributing to adverse perinatal outcomes. Early referral of eclampsia patients and the implementation of resuscitative measures, coupled with enhanced neonatal care, are crucial interventions that can potentially mitigate perinatal morbidity and mortality associated with eclampsia in the context of a tertiary hospital setting in Bangladesh. These findings provide valuable insights for healthcare practitioners and policymakers to guide strategies aimed at improving perinatal outcomes in similar healthcare settings.