Comparison of maternal risk factors in premature and term newborns

Abstract Background: Regarding the high number of births and the mortality rate of premature newborns, the identification of associated causes is necessary. Objective: To compare the maternal risk factors among premature and term newborns in Qazvin during the year 2003. Methods: In this case-control study, 120 premature and 120 term newborns were evaluated. Information such as blood pressure, history of eclampsia, cigarette smoking, maternal disease, and others were collected form newborn and their mothers using the medical files. The data were further analyzed, statically. Findings: The results showed that 23 cases (19.2%) of premature mothers and 6 cases (5%) of mature mothers had eclampsia (P=0.001). twenty three cases (19.2%) of premature mothers and 5 cases (4.2%) of term mothers had multiple pregnancies (P<0.05). twenty five cases (20.8%) of premature mothers and 7 cases (5.8%) of mature mothers had history of dilatation and abortion (P<0.001). PROM was seen in 14 cases (11.7%) of premature mothers and in 5 cases (4.2%) of term mothers (P<0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that factors such as preeclampsia, multiple pregnancy, PROM, and abortion, play a role in increased number of premature newborns.