Maternal and perinatal outcome in placenta previa: a prospective observational study at a tertiary care hospital in Hanmakonda, Telangana, India

Abstract

Background: Placenta previa is a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. A multi-disciplinary team approach is necessary to manage this condition. The wide spread use of ultrasonography in obstetrics in current days aided in early diagnosis of placenta previa. The present study was done to evaluate the maternal and fetal outcome in placenta previa in tertiary care centre.Methods: This prospective study was conducted at Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Kakatiya Medical College under Government Maternity Hospital, Hanmakonda, Telangana during the period of June 2019 to September 2020.Results: In present study, total number of placenta previa cases were 42 out of 7564 with an incidence of 0.55%. Majority were in the age group 20-29 years (88%). The major risk factor was previous caesarean delivery seen in 64.2% cases. The 19% cases presented with breech presentation. Majority were type 2 placenta previa (52.3%). Incidence was more among un booked cases (66.6%). The incidence of post-partum hemorrhage was 16.6%. Hysterectomy was done in 7.14%. Perinatal mortality due to asphyxia was 2.38%, prematurity was 4.76%. Perinatal mortality rate was 1.05%.Conclusions: Placenta previa has significant maternal and fetal risk. Accurate diagnosis, and timely intervention can lead to favourable outcome. Educating patients regarding the complications like post-partum hemorrhage, need for blood transfusions, and taking the neonatologist opinion will reduce the maternal and perinatal complications. Early referral, and proper health education will help in better outcome of both mother and fetus.