Predictors of Spontaneous Abortion among Reproductive-aged Women at Tertiary Level Hospital, Kathmandu

Predictors of Spontaneous Abortion among Reproductive-aged Women

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Spontaneous abortion (SA) is one of the adverse outcomes during pregnancy, which is a great challenge for maternal health promotion. The present study is aimed to examine the predictors of SA among reproductive- aged women.

Method: A hospital-based case-control study was conducted in Patan hospital, Lalitpur, Nepal.  The consecutive sampling technique was used to select the cases (84) and a purposive sampling technique was used for controls (168) i.e. 1:2 ratio. Data was collected through face to face interview using a structured interview schedule. Descriptive and inferential statistics i.e. Chi-square, Fisher exact test and logistic regression analysis were used for analyzing the data. P value was set at 0.05.

Result: It has been found that   previous history of abortion (OR=3.80, 95% CI =1.8-7.70), heavy lifting (OR=20.45, 95% CI =4.48-93.38), emotional disturbance (OR=10.06, 95% CI =1.06-96.96), health problems (OR=16.53, 95% CI =1.90-143.41), coffee intake (OR=.36, 95% CI=.20-.63) were the significant predictors of SA among reproductive-aged women. On the other hand, preconception counseling and planned pregnancy were the protective factors for SA.

Conclusion: Based on the result of this study it can be concluded that abortion history, heavy lifting, emotional disturbances, health problems, and coffee intake during pregnancy are the significant predictors of spontaneous abortion. Advice to encourage healthy lifestyle habits and planning a pregnancy might be helpful in reducing the risk of spontaneous abortion.

Keyword: predictors, reproductive -aged women, spontaneous abortion.