Persistent Postpartum Preeclampsia Occurrence and Associated Risk Factors in Ghana-A Retrospective Cross-Sectional...

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal Health
• Public Health Research

Background:

• Postpartum preeclampsia presents significant maternal health risks, including eclampsia and stroke.
• Data on persistent postpartum preeclampsia in Ghana is limited, hindering targeted interventions.
• This study addresses the knowledge gap regarding postpartum preeclampsia in Ghanaian women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of persistent postpartum preeclampsia in Ghana.
• To identify sociodemographic, clinical, and obstetric risk factors associated with persistent postpartum preeclampsia.

Main Methods:

• A hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted.
• Data was collected from 210 women's medical records at St. Joseph Hospital, Koforidua.
• Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.0, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of persistent postpartum preeclampsia was found to be 15.2%.
• Cesarean section delivery (aOR = 4.72) and chronic hypertension (aOR = 2.56) were significantly associated with increased odds of postpartum preeclampsia.
• Sociodemographic factors were not significantly associated with the condition.

Conclusions:

• Persistent postpartum preeclampsia is a considerable concern in Ghana.
• Cesarean delivery and chronic hypertension are independent predictors of persistent postpartum preeclampsia.
• Enhanced postpartum monitoring is crucial for women with identified risk factors.