Maternal predictive factors for preterm birth: A case-control study in Southern Iran

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Preterm birth (PTB) is a leading cause of infant mortality and chronic disease.
• Identifying maternal risk factors is crucial for preventing PTB and improving infant outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine maternal factors associated with preterm infant birth in Bandar Abbas.
• To provide data for targeted interventions to reduce PTB rates.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 400 preterm infants.
• Data collected through maternal interviews and medical records.
• Conditional logistic regression used to analyze risk factors.

Main Results:

• Significant risk factors for PTB included type of delivery, preeclampsia, history of PTB, premature rupture of membranes, placental abruption, placenta previa, and cervical insufficiency.
• Prenatal care was found to be a protective factor (OR = 0.334).
• Cervical insufficiency (OR = 11) and placenta previa (OR = 9.333) were strongly associated with PTB.

Conclusions:

• Cervical insufficiency, history of placenta previa, and history of preterm birth are key risk factors for PTB.
• Early recognition and management of these conditions can help reduce PTB.
• Targeted prenatal care strategies are essential for high-risk pregnancies.