Effect of utilization of antenatal services on pregnancy outcome in Aligarh - A Community based study

Abstract

Background: Low birthweight has long been used as an important public health indicator. Low birthweight is not a proxy for any one dimension of either maternal or perinatal health outcomes rather this indicator is a good summary measure of a multifaceted public health problem that includes long-term maternal malnutrition, ill health, hard work and poor pregnancy health care.

Methods: The present Community based prospective study was conducted in the field practice areas of the Urban and Rural Health Training Centers, Department of Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. Registered pregnant women who were in their first trimester and whose Expected Date of Delivery lie within our study period of one year were considered for study. Three home visits were made (two in antenatal period, one in post-natal period). Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Percentages, and Chi Square Test used. 

Results: Prevalence of LBW was found to be 40%. Statistically significant association was found between antenatal visits, iron folic acid supplementation and birth weight of baby.

Conclusion: More number of antenatal visits equate to better antenatal care of females.  It may result in better compliance with irofol supplementation and dietary intake and also early detection of any complications thus resulting in lower rates of LBW.