PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF INTRAUTERINE GROWTH RESTRICTION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: The intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) occurs when a fetus does not develop to its full genetic potential, usually as a result of placental, fetal, or maternal causes. Low Apgar scores, NICU admissions, and elevated prenatal morbidity are among the negative neonatal outcomes linked to IUGR. Objective: To determine the prevalence of IUGR in neonates born at a tertiary care hospital and to identify maternal and fetal risk factors associated with IUGR Material and Methods: There were 273 women in this cross-sectional study. Maternal demographics, medical records, prenatal treatment, factors related to lifestyle, and neonatal outcomes were recorded. WHO and ACOG criteria were used to identify maternal risk factors, including anemia, hypertensive diseases, gestational diabetes, malnutrition, inadequate prenatal care, and socioeconomic level. Both Chi-square test and Mann Whitney U test, as well as binary logistic regression, were utilized, with a significance level of p≤0.05 being considered. Results: The prevalence of IUGR was 39%. Significant associations were observed with maternal education (primary level protective, p=0.007), occupation (others protective, p<0.001), history of preterm birth (p=0.011), antenatal complications (p=0.019), and lack of iron/folic acid supplementation (p=0.001; adjusted p=0.045). Neonatal diagnosis of IUGR remained the strongest predictor (p<0.001). Conclusion: A major cause for concern among neonates is presence of intrauterine growth restriction. Having history of abortions or miscarriages, fewer prenatal visits, and lower maternal weight are all important risk factors. However, taking iron and folic acid supplements was protective against these risks.