Intrauterine Growth Restriction and Antenatal Care inUrban Rajshahi, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is characterized by a rate of growth in the fetus that is below the expected level based on the growth potential of that particular newborn. IUGR is a significant contributor to both fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. This syndrome arises from a variety of factors, like low maternal weight, smoking, inadequate prenatal care, pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) etc. Objective: The aim of this study was to find out the relation-ship between IUGR and ante natal care among the urban women. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design to investigate pregnant women residing in urban regions of Rajshahi district. A purposive sample of 150 individuals was selected from both the outpatient department and indoor facilities of Barind Medical College Hospital, Rajshahi. Results: A total of 150 pregnant mothers, 29 (19.3%) mothers delivered newborns with IUGR and 120(80%) mothers received regular antenatal checkup. In this study, 56 (37.3%) mothers had high blood pressure and among them 42 (75.0%) received antihypertensive drugs. IUGR were significantly (p<0.05) heigher among the mothers had not received ANC than the mothers had received ANC. Conclusion: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is one of the major public health issues in Bangladesh. Practice of regular antenatal care should be strengthened in Bangladesh.