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Stillbirths at Eldoret District Hospital: a retrospective study
1Department of Reproductive Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya.
East African Medical Journal
|September 1, 1994
Summary
This study found a high stillbirth rate (SBR) of 30.5 per 1000 births, with intrapartum fetal asphyxia as a common cause. Improved antenatal and intrapartum care could significantly reduce stillbirths.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Stillbirths remain a significant global health challenge.
- Understanding local stillbirth rates and causes is crucial for targeted interventions.
- Eldoret District Hospital's stillbirth rate (SBR) was assessed in this retrospective study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the stillbirth rate at Eldoret District Hospital.
- To identify the primary causes and associated factors of stillbirths.
- To inform strategies for stillbirth prevention.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of stillbirth cases over a one-year period (November 1992 - October 1993).
- Data collection included stillbirth rates, causes of death, birth weight, gestational age, mode of delivery, and maternal demographics.
- Statistical analysis of collected data.
Main Results:
- The stillbirth rate was 30.5 per 1000 births.
- Intrapartum fetal asphyxia (45.8%) was the leading cause; 26.4% of cases were unexplained.
- 43.9% of stillbirths involved low birth weight infants, with a mean gestational age of 35.4 weeks.
Conclusions:
- High rates of fresh stillbirths and intrapartum fetal asphyxia indicate potential for improvement.
- Maternal factors such as teenage pregnancy and primigravidity were noted.
- Enhanced antenatal and intrapartum care are recommended to reduce the stillbirth rate.