Ten-year review of feto-maternal outcomes of anaemia in pregnancy at a tertiary health facility in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Anaemia in pregnancy remains a major global reproductive health concern, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. This study assessed the prevalence, severity, and feto-maternal outcomes of pregnancy-related anaemia at Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara.

A retrospective descriptive study was conducted from 2012 to 2021. Records of pregnant women with anaemia (Hb <11 g/dL or PCV <33%) and complete outcome data were analyzed. Women with chronic medical/haematological conditions, or incomplete records were excluded. Data were extracted using structured forms and analyzed with SPSS v25. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact (where appropriate) tests were applied, with bivariate analysis to test associations between anaemia severity and outcomes.

Out of 2,506 deliveries, 393 (15.7%) were anaemic. Of these, 326 cases with complete records were included. Most women were aged 31–40 years (42.9%), unbooked (58.6%), and had mild anaemia (63.5%). Severe anaemia (4.9%) was significantly associated with caesarean delivery (87.5%), blood transfusion (100%), postpartum haemorrhage (31.3%), sepsis (43.8%), prolonged stay in hospital (43.8%), and maternal mortality (31.3%) (p < 0.001). While severe anaemia was linked to low birth weight (37.5%) and macrosomia (31.3%), adverse fetal outcomes were more common in mild cases but not statistically significant. Haematinics were administered in 83.7% and blood transfusions in 16.3%.

Anaemia in pregnancy remains prevalent at DELSUTH. Severity is associated with poor maternal outcomes, highlighting the importance of early detection, improved antenatal access, and specialized institutional responses.