Long and short interpregnancy intervals increase severe maternal morbidity

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Maternal Health
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Severe maternal morbidity (SMM) encompasses adverse pregnancy outcomes linked to mortality.
• Interpregnancy interval (IPI) is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, but its association with SMM is understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between interpregnancy interval (IPI) and severe maternal morbidity (SMM).
• To analyze SMM with and without blood transfusion based on IPI.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of multiparous women (2007-2012) in California.
• IPI stratified into <6, 6-11, 12-17, 18-23, 24-59, and ≥60 months.
• Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for confounders.

Main Results:

• Short (<6 months) and long (≥60 months) IPIs were associated with higher SMM risk compared to 18-23 months.
• Long IPIs (≥60 months) were linked to higher nontransfusion SMM, ventilation, and maternal sepsis.
• Short IPIs (<6 months) showed increased odds of SMM.

Conclusions:

• Both short and long interpregnancy intervals pose risks for severe maternal morbidity.
• Interpregnancy interval is a modifiable risk factor for SMM.
• Counseling on optimal interpregnancy intervals can reduce SMM risk.