Effect of Maternal Haemoglobin on Neonatal Anthropometry: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: Anaemia during pregnancy is highly prevalent especially in developing nations (65-75% in India). The causes are multifactorial, nutritional anaemia being the most common cause. Maternal anaemia is known to have adverse neonatal outcomes, including anthropometric measurements. Aim: To study the correlation between maternal haemoglobin level and neonatal birth weight, length and head circumference. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective observational study carried out at DY Patil University School of Medicine and Hospital, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India done over two years between November 2018-November 2020. Maternal history, blood samples and neonatal birth weight, length and head circumference were taken. Results were recorded, and qualitative data was presented using frequency, percentage while quantitative data was presented using descriptive statistics. Further statistical analysis was carried out with the help of tests such as Wilcoxon Mann-whitney U test, Kruskal Walis test and Spearman’s correlation test for association. Results: A total of 550 anaemic mothers fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. Neonatal birth weight, length and head circumference were negatively affected by the severity of maternal anaemia which was statistically significant. Higher Body Mass Index (BMI), compliance with Iron Folic Acid (IFA) supplementation, adequate interpregnancy interval between pregnancies and adequate calorie intake during pregnancy resulted in significant differences in birth weight and length. Conclusion: Maternal anaemia, malnutrition, irregular IFA supplementation, inadequate spacing and inadequate calorie intake significantly hampers neonatal anthropometry.