Perinatal Outcome in Meconium Stained Liquor Term Women Visiting To Shaikh Zaid Women Hospital Larkana

Abstract

Background: Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) is a frequent obstetric observation, which is related to a high rate of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Meconium presence and consistency are the vital signs that show fetal distress and may affect the outcomes of the newborn. This research aimed to assess the perinatal outcomes of term pregnancies with meconium-stained liquor.

Methods: Over the course of six months, 165 pregnant women with MSAF were sampled one after the other. The study was cross-sectional. Data on mother demographics, obstetric history, intrapartum features, and newborn outcomes were gathered using a structured proforma. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. Variables were summarized using descriptive statistics. The groups of results comprised thin and thick meconium, which were compared by chi-square and t-tests, and predictors of adverse perinatal outcomes were identified with the help of logistic regression.

Results:
In 41.8% of cases, thick meconium was found and showed a significant association with Apgar scores < 7 (36.2%); meconium aspiration syndrome (24.6%); NICU admission (34.8%); and neonatal mortality (7.2%) (p < 0.05). Logistic regression identified thick meconium (AOR = 3.42, 95% CI = 1.62–7.21, p = 0.001), abnormal FHR (AOR = 2.87, 95% CI = 1.28–6.45, p = 0.010), and oligohydramnios (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI = 1.05–7.25, p = 0.038) as independent predictors of adverse outcomes.

Conclusion:
Thick meconium, fetal distress, and oligohydramnios are significant risk factors for poor perinatal outcomes. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial to decrease neonatal morbidity and mortality.