CDC-WONDER Database Analysis of Maternal Morbidity in Florida [ID 2683410

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The CDC's WONDER Natality database was updated in 2016 to include comprehensive pregnancy data, encompassing maternal morbidity, a growing concern in the United States. Using the WONDER Natality database, we can better understand risk factors and trends associated with maternal morbidity. The aim of this research is to investigate the variations in maternal morbidity in Florida, focusing on maternal demographics and pregnancy characteristics. METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study used results from the CDC’s WONDER Natality 2016–2021 expanded-results database. Five categories of maternal morbidity were analyzed. Maternal morbidity and pregnancy characteristics were analyzed for statistical significance using χ2 and unpaired t-tests. RESULTS: 92,680 (1.04%) births in Census Region 3 (the South) were found to be associated with maternal morbidity. This prompted an in-depth examination of this region, with a particular focus on Florida. Notably, Asian mothers experienced the highest rate of maternal morbidity (1.49%), whereas Black mothers faced the lowest statistical rate (0.67%). Asian mothers experiencing maternal morbidity tended to be older, have lower pre-pregnancy body mass indexes, more prenatal visits, and shorter intervals since their last live births. CONCLUSION: This study underscores statistically significant maternal morbidity disparities in Florida, with Asian mothers being particularly vulnerable. It identifies several pregnancy characteristics linked to increased morbidity. Further exploration, including a county-level analysis in Florida and examination of other states in Census Region 3, could reveal or consolidate emerging trends. Moreover, the absence of a universally accepted definition for severe maternal morbidity calls for the establishment of a clear standard to guide future research and obstetric practices.