An observational study to find factors associated with short interpregnancy interval among women with antecedent cesarean deliveries

Abstract Introduction: The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends an inter pregnancy interval (birth-to-pregnancy interval) of 24 – 59 months to minimise perinatal mortality and improve maternal health. Birth spacing is one of the strategies through which good maternal and child health can be achieved. Birth spacing has become a major health promotion programme strategy for mothers in recent years especially in the developing countries. Methods: This observational study was conducted in Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, in a tertiary care institute located in central India, over a period of 12 months. 200 women with history of antecedent caesarean delivery were studied to identify factors behind short interpregnancy interval. Data were studied and statistically analysed Results: women who were young (<25 years) (OR= 3.1224), residing in rural area (OR= 4.0952), illiterate (OR= 2.9217), who belonged to low socio-economic status (OR= 2.6897) were more likely to experience Short Interpregnancy interval. Addition to this woman who were second gravida (OR= 2.5244), who had IUFD or stillbirth in previous pregnancy (OR= 5.4444), who were not using any contraceptives (OR=10.6014), who had female child in their last delivery (OR= 2.7934), who did not plan current pregnancy (OR= 5.1081) were more at risk of having short IPI. Conclusion: As interpregnancy interval is a modifiable risk factor, interventions to enhance contraceptive utilization behaviours, encouraging maternal education, encouraging breastfeeding among women would be helpful to narrow the gap between optimal and actual birth spacing. Awareness raising and cultural promotion of parents should also be made to avoid sex-based intervals.