BIRTH TO PREGNANCY INTERVAL AND ITS EFFECT ON PERINATAL OUTCOMES IN ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Abstract
Background: Study findings on inter pregnancy interval and its effect on birth outcome looks contradictory. Some report that it is a risk factor for adverse perinatal outcome while others say it has no association. Still, there is no universally agreed recommendation on the ideal inter-pregnancy interval with regards to favorable perinatal outcome.
Objective: to assess birth to pregnancy interval and its effect on perinatal outcomes in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods: A Cross sectional study was undertaken on a sample of 1339 mother who gave birth at a randomly selected public and private health facilities located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Eligible mothers from selected health facilities were consecutively included in the study until the required sample was achieved. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and appropriate measurements. Data was processed and analyzed using EPI info and SPSS computer software. Univariate and bivariate analysis were employed.
Result: the rate of preterm, low birth weight (LBW) and stillbirth were 7.1%, 5.6% and 3.1%, respectively. The mean birth to pregnancy interval was 45.9+27.3 months (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 44.4, 47.3). Birth pregnancy interval has shown no effect on poor perinatal outcome.
Conclusion: Further Studies on the effect of birth to pregnancy interval on perinatal outcomes is recommended