Study of demographic, maternal, placental factors and birth weight of the neonate

Abstract

Background-Birth weight is an important determinant of child survival, healthy growth and Development. In Obstetrics, the relationship of birth weight and maternal, obstetric and placental factors has been long appreciated.
Materials and Methods- A prospective study was conducted on 180 mothers at Krishna Hospital Karad. Every consecutive mother was recruited and maternal and obstetric profile was completed. The neonates were weighed during the first hour after delivery using electronic weighing scales. All fresh and cleaned placentas were examined immediately after delivery.
Result- There was a significant association found between gestational age and the birth weight and significant correlation found between mean placental weight, placental diameter and numbers of cotyledons and birth weight (p< 0.001).
Conclusion- The study conclude that the commonest risk factors for low birth weight was maternal education, gestational age, placental weight, and diameter, number of cotyledon, fetal length, and head circumference.