Fetomaternal Outcome and its Associated Factors in Patients with Decreased Fetal Movements

Abstract

Objective: To determine the fetomaternal outcome of antenatal patients with reduced fetal movements and its association with different maternal parameters. Study Design And Setting: Prospective case control study Gynae Department of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar. Methodology: This study was conducted from 1st February 2022 to 31st July 2022.80 antenatal women at >34 weeks, reporting less fetal movements were included. Exclusion criteria was multiple pregnancies, refused consent, IUFD, congenital malformations, and <34 weeks gestation. Sampling technique was consecutive non probability sampling. After detailed history and examination, 20-minute non-stress test, Color Doppler and Ultrasonography (AFI)was assessed and recorded. NICU admission, perinatal morbidity, meconium stained liquor and APGAR score < 7 were recorded. Control group of 80 pregnant women, not reporting any reduction in fetal movements, at similar gestation, delivering within 48 hours of admission, was constituted. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test were applied. Results: 58 (73%) patients were 21-30 years old.63 (79%) were primiparous.57 (72%) were at term pregnancy. AFI was < 5 cm in 19(23.7%),15 had spontaneous labor, whereas 56 (67%) were induced. 54 (67%) had NVD, 9 (11.5%)instrumental delivery, and 17 (20%) Caesaraen section.16 (20%) with an AFI < 5 cm had NVD. Mean birth weight was 2.67+0.46 kg.68 had > 7 and 12 had < 7 APGAR, no perinatal mortality among the 14(20%) newborns admitted to NICU. Conclusion: Reduced fetal movenets are reliable method of assessing fetal well being. Primigravidae and term pregnancy are risk factors for RFM. Modalities like non-stress testing, ultrasound, and color Doppler studies are useful in diagnosis.