Neonatal Outcomes of Eclamptic Mothers in a Tertiary Government Teaching Hospital with a Rural Background

Abstract

Background: Eclampsia is a major contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in rural settings with limited healthcare access. This study aimed to evaluate neonatal outcomes among eclamptic mothers in two rural tertiary hospitals. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted from September 2015 to August 2016 at Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital and Government Medical College, Bettiah. A total of 96 eclamptic mothers were included. Neonatal outcomes such as birth weight, APGAR scores, preterm births, and NICU admissions were analyzed. Results: Among 96 eclamptic mothers, 67.71% delivered preterm, and 62.50% of neonates had low birth weight (<2.5 kg). At 5 minutes, 15.63% of neonates had critically low APGAR scores (0-3), and 48.96% required NICU admission. Neonatal mortality was 12.50%. Preterm birth was significantly associated with low birth weight (p < 0.001), poor APGAR scores (p = 0.002), NICU admission (p = 0.021), and neonatal death (p = 0.013). Conclusion: The study revealed a high incidence of adverse neonatal outcomes among eclamptic mothers, with preterm birth significantly impacting neonatal health. Improved prenatal care and timely intervention in rural settings are essential to reducing neonatal complications.