Maternal And Fetal OutcomesOf Women With Pregnancy Induced Hypertension In Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos-Nigeria I A O Ujah, J. T. Mutihir, A. O. Aisen, G. E. Imade

SUMMARY

Background: Pregnancy- induced hypertension is one of the commonest causes of maternal and perinantal morbidity and mortality in Nigeria but there has been no previous published study from the Jos University Teaching Hospital.

Objectives:To determine the incidence and contribution of pregnancy -induced hypertension to maternal and perinatal morbidity at the Jos University Teaching Hospital so as to recommend intervention strategies for the reduction of the incidence of eclampsia and its associated complications.

Patients and Methods: The case records of all patients admitted for pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) (Pre-eclampsia and Eclampsia) between January 1993 and June 1995 (a period of 30 months) were retrieved and reviewed. The data collected were analysed for age, parity, booking status as well as mode of delivery, maternal and fetal complications including maternal and perinatal deaths.

Results:The incidence of pregnancy-induced hypertension in the study was 2.4%. Teenage pregnancy accounted for more than one third of the cases while 68.5% were primigravidae. 64.5% of the patients were either unbooked or booked or had grossly inadequate antenatal care. Operative interventions by way of caesarean section and forceps deliveries accounted for 59.3%. The still birth rate was 15.2% and birth asphyxia was recorded in 43.3%. Low weight (LBW) babies occurred in 47%. There were 4 maternal deaths.

Conclusion: Pregnancy-induced hypertension remains a common reproductive health problem and contributes significantly to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in Jos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. The failure to utilize antenatal care services may have contributed to the high incidence of eclampsia in this part of the country. Niger Med J. 2003; Vol 44 (3):68 - 70.

KEYWORDS: Pregnancy-induced hypertension, Eclampsia, Maternal Mortality.