Maternal and Neonatal Complications and Related Factors in the Postpartum Period: Sample of a Private Hospital

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of postpartum maternal and neonatal complications and related factors in a private hospital in Karabuk. Materials and Methods: The sample size of the cross-sectional study was 304 (target population 1782, prevalence 50%, margin of error 5%, 95% confidence interval). In the study, 307 deliveries that occurred between September 11, 2017 and December 11, 2017 were examined. Dependent variable of the study was maternal and neonatal complications; independent variables were maternal sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics. Data were collected through 1) descriptive questionnaire, 2) maternal complication assessment form, and 3) neonatal complication assessment form. Data were analyzed with bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Results: The frequency of at least one maternal complication was 26.7%. The frequency of maternal complications increased 9.8 times by cesarean section, 8.4 times for emergency application for delivery, 7.0 times for living in a village, and 3.9 times if the spouse is a worker or self-employed. As the duration of pregnancy increased, the frequency of maternal complications decreased (OR=0.7). At least one complication was observed in 33.9% of newborns. The frequency of neonatal complications increased 9.6 times by cesarean section, 4.9 times for emergency delivery, and 4.4 times for smoking during pregnancy. As the duration of pregnancy increased, the frequency of complications decreased by 0.8 times. Conclusion: The high levels of postpartum maternal and neonatal complications in the study highlights the urgent need to improve prenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care services.