English

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Neonatal hypoglycaemia a major cause of morbidity and mortality may lead to permanent brain damage. This is more common in babies delivered by Caesarean Section. AIMS: A clinico-statistical study was performed among newborns delivered by Caesarean Section for a period of 1 year to find out: 1. The incidence of neonatal hypoglycemia at 48 hrs of birth. 2. Risk factors of neonatal hypoglycemia in case of cesarean section. 3. Incidence of neonatal hypoglycemia in newborns of mothers with obstetrical risks (dribbling, PET, & prolonged labour). 4. Incidence of hypoglycemia among low birth weight babies. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted based on deliveries by Caesarean Section over a period of 1 year. METHODS AND MATERIAL: Screening was done by GOD-POD (Glucose Oxidase-Peroxidase) method from new born blood (venous) at 48 hrs of life. We considered neonatal hypoglycaemia as blood glucose concentration < 50 mg/dl. Gestational age was calculated from LMP (Last Menstrual Period). Additionally low birth weight babies were also considered for the study. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The number of newborns suffering from hypoglycaemia in each of the above groups were determined from the blood test and their incidences were calculated with respect to the total number of newborns (221) selected for the study. RESULTS: The overall incidence of neonatal hypoglycemia at 48 hrs was 16.3%.Those suffering from both preterm and dribbling the incidence of neonatal hypoglycemia was 100%. Other cases with risk factors had high incidence rates. CONCLUSION: The study reveals the importance of the risk factors for neonatal hypoglycaemia. All high risk cases had high incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia. We should always be vigilant about those to prevent neonatal morbidity and mortality.