الملخص الإنجليزي
Background: Short interpregnancy interval (IPI) has been associated with several
maternal and neonatal complications. In Oman, the incidence of short IPI is well
documented in the annual health report, but evidence is lacking on its impact on adverse
pregnancy outcomes. For optimal pregnancy outcomes, the Directorate of Planning and
Research Studies, Ministry of Health Oman proposes research topics on short birth
intervals as a research priority.
Purpose: This study examined the association between short IPI and the prevalence of
adverse pregnancy outcomes among Omani pregnant women. The study also examined the
risk factors of short IPI.
Method: A retrospective case- control (women with optimal IPI vs. women with short IPI)
design was used between January 2020 to December 2020 to answer the study aims. A total
597 pregnant women from two hospitals in Oman were included in this study.
Results: The study findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between IPI
(case vs. control) and the prevalence of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes including
Post-Partum Hemorrhage (x2= 15.86, p< .05), Iron Deficiency Anemia (x2= 2.39, p< .05),
Preterm Birth (x2= 10.49, p< .05) and Low Birth Weight (x2= 15.21, p< .05). Significant
risk factors associated with having a short IPI among Omani women were women with
advanced maternal age, who's age at first delivery was young, with low parity and with
previous perinatal loss (p<0.005).
Conclusion: Current study showed significant association between short IPI and adverse
pregnancy outcomes including Iron Deficiency Anemia, Post-Partum Hemorrhage,
Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight. Therefore, at a national level, the acceptance of birth
spacing through contraception would signify a notable change in some cultural values that
prevent couples from utilizing the birth spacing methods and therefore improve pregnancy
outcomes.
