Investigating the Impact of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension on Fetal Outcomes: A Comprehensive Study in Maternity Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Hypertension in pregnancy is a major obstetric complication that poses a significant risk to maternal and fetal health, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. According to the World Health Organization, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) claim the life of at least one woman every seven minutes. HDPs are associated with an increased risk of adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes, including preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), perinatal mortality, and maternal morbidity and mortality. Prompt recognition and management of PIH are essential to mitigate these complications and ensure optimal maternal and fetal outcomes. Hence the study was undertaken to assess the impact of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension on fetal outcome among Antenatal mother with PIH at maternity hospital of Anand and Kheda district. Objectives: To assess the clinical presentation among mother with PIH at maternity hospital; To assess the impact of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension on fetal outcome. Methodology: A Prospective study was conducted at Dr. N. D. Desai hospital, Nadiad. Sample size was 30. Sample was selected by Consecutive Sampling Technique. The data regarding Demographic variable, Obstetric History, Classification of PIH, Blood pressure, Drug Received & Fetal outcomes was collected using Structured Interview Scheduled. The result is computed by using descriptive and frequency and percentage using tables, graph etc. Data were analysed according to objectives of the study. Results: In present study, the incidence of gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, and eclampsia was 10%, 86.66%, and 3.33%, respectively. These conditions were more common in primipara. The symptoms of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) included pedal edema (60%), vomiting (43.33%), blurry vision (6.66%), convulsions (3.33%), and dizziness (6.66%), as well as epigastric pain (16.66%) and lower abdominal pain (36.66%). Most mothers (83.33%) received antihypertensive medication. The study also found that fetal complications included preterm births (66.66%) and low birth weight (56.66%). Additionally, 63.33% of babies required NICU admission, and there were cases of post-term birth (3.33%), congenital abnormalities (3.33%), birth asphyxia (3.33%), and neonatal deaths (10%). Conclusion: Pregnancy-induced hypertension is a common and serious condition that can have devastating effects on both mothers and babies. To combat this, we need to raise awareness and take action at both community and hospital levels to reduce the risks and improve outcomes.