A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY TO ANALYSE CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS OF INTRAUTERINE FETAL DEATH AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
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Keywords
Intrauterine fetal death, Stillbirth, Antenatal care, Risk factors, Perinatal mortality.
Abstract
Background: Intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) remains a significant contributor to perinatal mortality, particularly in developing countries. Despite improvements in maternal healthcare, the burden of stillbirths continues to be high due to multiple maternal, fetal, and placental factors. Identifying the associated risk factors is essential for improving antenatal care and reducing preventable fetal deaths.
Methods: A cross-sectional clinical study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Geetanjali Medical College and Hospital, Udaipur, after obtaining institutional ethical approval. A total of 64 antenatal patients diagnosed with IUFD were included in the study using a consecutive sampling technique. Data regarding sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric history, clinical presentation, medical disorders, gestational age, mode of delivery, and possible causes of IUFD were collected using a predesigned proforma. Relevant clinical examinations and laboratory investigations were performed. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel, and results were expressed as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation.
Results: The majority of patients were aged 26–30 years (39.1%), and 57.8% belonged to lower or lower-middle socioeconomic classes. Most patients were multigravida (60.9%). The most common presenting complaint was abdominal pain (29.7%). The majority of IUFD cases occurred before 38 weeks of gestation. Maternal risk factors included gestational hypertension (9.4%), preeclampsia (7.8%), and hypothyroidism (7.8%). Severe oligohydramnios and preeclampsia were among the most common identifiable causes (9.3% each), while 18.75% of cases remained unexplained. Vaginal delivery with induction was the most common mode of delivery (45.3%).
Conclusion: IUFD is frequently associated with preventable maternal conditions and inadequate antenatal care. Early identification of high-risk pregnancies, regular antenatal monitoring, timely management of complications, and promotion of institutional deliveries are essential to reduce the burden of IUFD.
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Dr Arshiya Goyal
Senior Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Care CHL Hospital, Indore
Dr Shruti Tiwari
Senior Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Care CHL Hospital, Indore
