Profile of Risk Factors Associated with Stillbirth at Western Regional Hospital

Abstract

Background: Stillbirth (SB) incidents are one of the most common adverse outcomes to occur during pregnancy. Studies indicate that approximately 3.3 million stillbirths are reported annually across the developing world. Institutional registration and under reporting of still birth to an authorized centre is a common problem.

Objective: The objective of this study is to find out the incidence of SB after 28 weeks gestation and to find out the associated risk factors at Western Regional Hospital of Nepal.

Materials and Methods: This is a cross sectional study carried out at Western Regional Hospital. Stillbirth babies born after 28 weeks of gestation or birth weight ≥ 1 kilogram and their mothers were recruited for the study. Intrapartum stillbirths were included despite of their ages, races or socio-economic status. Descriptive analysis was done on the data.

Results: There were 3380 deliveries during the period of study. Among them, 50 cases were stillborn babies with a rate of 14 per thousand deliveries. The major risk factors associated were oligohydramnios, decreased fetal movement, growth restriction, meconium stained liquor and cord prolapse.

Conclusion: Oligohydramnios (amniotic fluid index < 5cm) was the most common risk factor for stillbirth. Early identification and appropriate perinatal management could help to promote perinatal health.