Evaluating the Stillbirth Rate and Risk Factors at Zanana Hospital and P. D. U. Medical College, Rajkot: An One Year Observational Study

Abstract

Stillbirths constitute a major part of perinatal death, and India has the highest absolute number of stillbirths. Women in the most deprived groups are at the highest risk for stillbirths, for example poorer women, with little education, those living in rural areas and not currently working. The focus of this research was to assess our institute's stillbirth rate, as well as the aetiology and risk factors for stillbirths. During the study period of one year, all stillbirths delivered at or above 28 weeks of gestation or weighing more over 1000gms in P.D.U. Medical College and Hospital, Rajkot were included. The institute's stillbirth rate was investigated. Indicators of socio-economic deprivation were strongly associated with increase in stillbirths. 70% cases belonged to rural region and 48% cases were referral cases. 67.2% stillbirths were found in multigravida women . 57.01% stillborn babies were males, 34.71% of stillborns had extremely low birth weight and were pre-term. 54.78% stillborns were macerated. Aetiology of stillbirth was unknown in 24.8% cases. Antepartum haemorrhage contributed 19% cases, asphyxia -16.8% cases and pre-eclampsia-12.1% cases of stillbirth, in our study. The reduction of stillbirths can be aided by focusing on modifiable risk factors, thorough screening, prenatal and intrapartum supervision, and timely referral to a tertiary care center.