Impact of the Length of Interpregnancy Interval on Obstetric Outcomes

Abstract

Abstract Background Inter-pregnancy interval (IPI) is defined as the period between the last delivery and conception of the current pregnancy. Both short and long intervals between pregnancies have been associated with an increased risk of variable adverse outcomes, such as preterm birth, low birth weight (LBW), small size for gestational age, and perinatal death. Aim of the Work To assess the impact of IPI as a risk factor for adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes. Patients and Methods This study was held in Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital on 1719 patients ranging between the ages of 18-35 years. They were divided into three groups according to the length of their IPI [444 patients in group p1 (6-18 months), 847 patients in group p2 (18-48) and 428 patients in group p3 (> 48 months)]. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of IPI as a risk factor for adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes. Results The incidence of LBW among patients with IPI 6-18 months was 11.5%, 12.5% among those with IPI 18-48 months and 16.8% among those with IPI > 48 months. It was also found that the rate of short IPI decreases with age, being more common among the younger age, lower parity groups. The incidence of gestational DM increased with longer IPI. Parity, previous miscarriages, cesarean sections and preterm labor were all significantly associated with the length of IPI. Conclusion This study confirms that both shorter and longer IPIs are associated with increased risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study provides critical information relevant for improving pregnancy outcomes and fetal survival.