BACKGROUND

Primigravidas (PGs) are high-risk women and anemia in pregnancy is one of the commonest causes of maternal morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVES

The study was conducted to assess impact of anemia on course and outcome of pregnancy in anemic (Hemoglobin 8-10.9 gm%) and nonanemic PGs.

METHODS

This prospective longitudinal study was conducted in All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. PGs 20-30 years age, gestation age 16-18 weeks, hemoglobin >8 gm%, live singleton pregnancy, and no other medical illness were recruited after informed consent. The women were Grouped 1 and 2 if hemoglobin was ≥11 gm% and 8-10.9 gm%, respectively. Complete hemogram done at enrollment, 28-30 weeks of pregnancy and 6 weeks postdelivery. Obstetric outcome and presence of anemia postdelivery were compared between groups using Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS

A total of 377 PGs were enrolled and obstetric outcomes studied in 179 (Group 1) and 149 (Group 2) excluding women who did not complete study. There was no statistically significant difference in baseline characteristics, antenatal complications, gestational age, mode of delivery, and neonatal outcome. At 28-30 weeks of gestation, in spite of iron supplementation higher percentage (64.4%) (P < 0.05) of anemic patients remained anemic. At 6 weeks postdelivery, 15.6% and 24.2% were anemic in Group 1 and 2, respectively (P > 0.05). The adverse postpartum events (7.6%) were seen more in anemic compared to nonanemic pregnant women (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Cautious approach required in postpartum period of anemic women though antenatal period is similar as nonanemic pregnant women.