Pregnancy Related Risk Factors among Women Attending Duhok Obstetrics And Gynecology Hospital

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth are women's great life events. Their health is very important to the well-being of the whole family and society. A poor pregnancy outcome due to complications during the antenatal and intranatal periods emphasizes the importance of using appropriate techniques for determining the pregnancy risk level. The study aims to identify pregnancy risks and levels in order to provide sufficient care. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was applied to a convenience sample of 400 pregnant women referred to the Obstetrics Consultant's Unit. Detailed history and necessary lab results were taken according to the Modified Coopland scoring system. Pregnant women were divided into three groups: low, moderate, and high risk according to their total risk score. Results: Most of the study sample were between the ages of 18 and 35 (88%). Those who had previous cesarean section were (25%). Moderate anemia seems to be in (21.8%). Overall (23.5%) of the sample were in the high-risk category. A statistically high significant association was found between age and number of pregnancies with pregnancy risk level at p-value < 0.001. Conclusions: Study concluded that one quarter of the participants were under high risk category. Anemia and history of previous cesarean section were most common risk factors. In order to prevent adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes, it is crucial to identify high-risk pregnancies in the antenatal period by using a simple, easy-to-use, non-invasive, cost-effective numerical scoring system.