Publication:

Study of maternal outcome in multiple gestation

Background Development of more than one fetus inside the uterus is called multifetal gestation or multiple pregnancy. It’s a great challenge to the concerned obstetricians, due to late diagnosis and related complications. Ignorance on the part of patients themselves puts this group in great peril. The increase in multiple births increases the rate of maternal morbidity and mortality. Aims and objectives of the study were to study maternal outcome in patients with multiple gestation.

Methods A prospective observational study carried out during the period of 1 year. A total of 200 patients with antenatal clinical and ultrasound confirmed diagnosis of multiple gestation were enrolled for the study. After taking proper consent for the study, proper history, clinical and obstetrical examinations were conducted and findings noted. Mothers were followed till discharge from the hospital.

Results Most of the patients (49.5%) were in 21-25 years age group. 65% of patients were multigravida. Undue enlargement of abdomen was the most common physical finding (62%). 79% patients had normal vaginal delivery. Fetal Malpresentation was the most common indication for caesarian section. A hypertensive disorder was the most common complication during pregnancy (23.5%) and pre-term labour was the most common intra-partum complication (38%). Incidence of maternal mortality was 1.5%.

Conclusions Multiple gestation is a mixed blessing and if successful, allows a couple to rapidly expand their family with a minimum number of pregnancies but it’s a great challenge to the concerned obstetricians. Complications due to multiple gestation are associated with adverse maternal outcome.