Antenatal and Intrapartum Risk Factors Associated with Birth Asphyxia in Term Babies

Abstract

Objective: To determine antenatal and intrapartum risk factors associated with birth asphyxia in term babies.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unit II, Foundation University Islamabad from June, 2024, to Nov, 2025. According to the estimated frequency of birth asphyxia, which ranged from 30.5% to 40% or higher case fatality rates with a 5% margin of error and a 95% confidence range, the WHO calculation yielded a sample size of 326 individuals.⁹ SPSS version II was used for data analysis.  Chi square tests were used to determine the frequency and percentages.

Results: The study comprised 326 mothers who were pregnant at term.  Maternal ages ranged from 18 to 35 years old, with an average age of 29.4 ± 5.1.  23.9% (n = 78) of the mothers were older than 35, whereas the majority (76.1%, n = 248) were between the ages of 18 and 35. Over half were primigravida (54.0%, n = 176), while 46.0% (n = 150) were multigravida, according to parity analysis.  In terms of fetal characteristics, 47.2% (n = 154) of the newborns were female, while 52.8% (n = 172) were male. Therefore, efforts should be made to raise the standard of services related to prenatal and postpartum risk factors.

Conclusion: The present study identifies several important risk factors for birth asphyxia, many of which can be changed by optimizing prenatal and postpartum care.  Lowering asphyxia rates and improving newborn outcomes need interventions that focus on maternal anemia, glycemic management, and attentive intrapartum surveillance (particularly for meconium, fetal distress, and placental problems).