Investigating the Incidence of Fetal Macrosomia at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) during the Period January- June 2021

Abstract

Background: Fetal macrosomia is a well-researched topic across the world but there is very little research done on this topic in Guyana. This condition impacts the morbidity and mortality of pregnant women significantly and this research paves a way to improve the overall health of women. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the incidence of fetal macrosomia at GPHC during the study period, to identify the maternal risk factors, the mode of delivery, and the maternal and neonatal outcomes of patients with fetal macrosomia. Methods: A retrospective cohort study design was conducted. Permission was granted from the relevant personnel and a data collection spreadsheet using Microsoft Office Excel 2007 was created. Data were further analyzed using (SPSS®) software version 26.0. Results: The incidence of fetal macrosomia at GPHC was found to be 4.3%. Male gender was the most common risk factor (62.9%) while post-term accounted for the least (2.6%). It was also found that the majority of mothers (55.2%) delivered via lower segment cesarean section (LSCS) while (44.8%) delivered via vaginal delivery (VD). The majority of macrosomic babies had no complications associated with their birth weights (59.1%). However, the least common complication was noted to be humeral fractures (1.6%) in the study population. Birth weights >4000g contributed to the majority of mothers resulting in an LSCS delivery (55.2%). The least common maternal outcomes were 3rd& 4th-degree lacerations (0.9% each). Conclusion: The incidence of fetal macrosomia in this study was found to be 4.3%. Male sex, advanced maternal age, grand multiparity, the presence of diabetes, and being late and post-term were all significant risk factors associated with this condition.