Assessment of pregnancy complications and their associated risk factors: a prospective observational study in a government hospital

Aim: The objective of this study is to evaluate the common pregnancy complications and their associated consideration of danger among pregnant women at the Government General Hospital. Methodology: A prospective, cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Government General Hospital in Guntur over a six-month period. Participants were recruited through the gynaecology department, where informed consent was obtained. Data collection involved patient interviews and review of medical records. The collected data were subsequently entered into an Excel spreadsheet, facilitating descriptive analysis and interpretation of results. Results: Among the 300 pregnant women studied, a higher incidence of complications was noted when the baby is three months old (56%) in comparison to the first and second trimesters (48%). Women aged 21 to 25 exhibited the highest frequency of complications (48%). Dependents experienced complications more significantly than working women, with 286 dependents affected. The most prevalent complications included anaemia (46.3%), urinary tract infections (19.3%), hypertension (19%), thyroid disorders (17%), gestational diabetes mellitus (11.6%), and eclampsia (6%). Associated risk factors identified were inadequate intake of iron-rich foods (76.25%), poor hygiene practices (79.3%), a family history of hypertension (49.12%), exposure to passive smoking (58.8%), physical inactivity (68.5%), and preeclampsia (95.83%). Our findings indicate that vitamin and mineral supplements were prescribed to 86% of the pregnant women receiving treatment, while anthelminthics (22%) and antihypertensive (11.6%) were administered based on observed side effects and symptoms. A total of 13 women reported experiencing three complications during their pregnancies. Conclusion: This prospective observational study concludes that the most frequently observed complications among pregnant women were anaemia, urinary tract infections, hypertension, thyroid disorders, gestational diabetes mellitus, and eclampsia. The primary risk factors associated with these complications included inadequate consumption of iron-rich foods, poor hygiene, family history, passive smoking, physical inactivity, stress, and preeclampsia.