Fetomaternal Challenges and Outcomes in Preterm Births: A Comprehensive Retrospective Analysis from a Tertiary Care Center

Background: Preterm birth, defined as delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. It also poses significant risks to maternal health. Aim and Objective: To evaluate the fetomaternal outcomes of preterm births in a tertiary care hospital setting. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study reviewed medical records of 350 women who delivered preterm between January 2018 and December 2022 at a tertiary care hospital. Preterm births were categorized into three groups: extremely preterm (<28 weeks), very preterm (28-32 weeks), and late preterm (32-36 weeks). Data on maternal demographics, obstetric history, pregnancy complications, mode of delivery, and neonatal outcomes were collected. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and comparative analyses across gestational age categories. Results: Of the 350 preterm deliveries, 14.3% were extremely preterm, 34.3% were very preterm, and 51.4% were late preterm. The overall neonatal mortality rate was 10.0%, with the highest rate observed in the extremely preterm group (40.0%). NICU admission was required for 42.9% of the neonates, and respiratory distress syndrome was diagnosed in 25.7%. Maternal outcomes showed a cesarean section rate of 57.1%, with postpartum haemorrhage occurring in 11.4% and puerperal infections in 8.6% of cases. Comparative analysis revealed that extremely preterm births were associated with significantly higher rates of both neonatal and maternal complications. Conclusion: Preterm birth, especially at earlier gestational ages, is associated with significant risks for both neonates and mothers. The findings highlight the need for enhanced prenatal care and targeted interventions to improve outcomes. The study also underscores the importance of specialized neonatal care, particularly for extremely preterm infants, to reduce the incidence of adverse outcomes.