Obstetric outcome of immigrants from mainland China in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: To compare obstetric outcomes in two socio‐economically distinct populations; illegal immigrants, who travelled across the Chinese border near term to deliver in Hong Kong between 1994 and 1996, and local Hong Kong residents. Methods: We identified two obstetric populations in our hospital with distinct social characteristics and patterns of antenatal care. A retrospective study of pregnancy outcome was conducted in these women. Results: When compared with Hong Kong residents, the illegal immigrants had a significantly lower incidence of antenatal complications, a lower requirement for obstetric intervention, and comparable obstetric outcome with the exception of a higher rate of delivery before arrival at hospital. Conclusion: Our findings were in contrast to previous reports, and contrary to our expectations. Obstetric outcome is multifactorial and previous assumptions about unbooked or socially disadvantaged patients should be re‐evaluated.