Perinatal outcome of closely spaced pregnancies: a Moroccan retrospective study

Abstract

Introduction: the purpose of this study is to provide Moroccan data, study maternal risk factors and identify perinatal complications related to closely-spaced pregnancies. Methods: we conducted a retrospective case-control study at the Provincial Hospital Center in the city of Settat from June 1, 2020 to June 1, 2021. A total of 670 patients were admitted, but only 630 were included in the study. They were divided into 2 groups: a group of patients whose interpregnancy interval was <9 months (N = 443) and a control group whose interpregnancy interval was >9 months (N = 187). Results: prematurity, hypotrophy and anemia p<0.05 were the main complications, the main risk factors for closely-spaced pregnancies were age >35 years (OR =19.079 (4.98; 73.06) p < 0.005), coming from a rural area (OR = 0.468 [0.28; 0.78] p < 0.005), having a low socioeconomic status (OR =3.465 [2.06; 5.81]; p < 0.005); the absence of contraceptive prescription in the postpartum period (OR =15.77 [7.31; 33.99]; p < 0.005); and breastfeeding breaks before getting pregnant (OR = 49.462 [15.78; 155.03]; p<0.05). Conclusion: prevention and specific family planning methods are necessary to avoid perinatal complications.