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A population-based case-control study of risk factors for breech presentation
J Rayl1, P J Gibson, D E Hickok
1Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Several maternal and infant factors increase breech birth risk. These include low birth weight, prematurity, older maternal age, and certain infant conditions, suggesting diverse biological causes for breech presentation.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Breech presentation complicates singleton births, necessitating an understanding of associated risk factors.
- Identifying these factors is crucial for improving perinatal outcomes and obstetric management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the associations between breech presentation and various infant, maternal, and pregnancy characteristics.
- To elucidate potential biological mechanisms underlying breech presentation.
Main Methods:
- Population-based case-control study design.
- Utilized Washington State birth certificate data from 1987-1988.
- Included 3588 breech cases and 8183 control singleton births.
Main Results:
- Increased risk of breech birth associated with low birth weight, short gestational age, primiparity, and advanced maternal age.
- Controlled analyses revealed associations with hydrocephalus, maternal diabetes, congenital malformations, smoking during pregnancy, and inadequate prenatal care.
- Black and Filipino women showed a reduced risk of breech presentation compared to white women.
Conclusions:
- Multiple maternal and infant characteristics are linked to increased breech birth risk.
- Findings suggest heterogeneous biological pathways contribute to breech presentation.
- Further research into these mechanisms may inform targeted interventions.