DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2025.v13i04.027

Pages: 1010-1014

Background: Maternal anaemia, primarily caused by iron deficiency, remains a significant public health issue in low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh. It poses serious risks to both maternal health and perinatal outcomes, including increased morbidity and mortality. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of maternal anaemia among term pregnant women and its association with adverse perinatal outcomes. Methods: A hospital-based observational study was conducted over six months (May–October 2022) in the Departments of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Paediatrics at Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh. A total of 100 term pregnant women diagnosed with anaemia were included based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected through clinical assessments, laboratory investigations, and follow-up of newborns for 7 days post-delivery. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Most participants (55%) were aged 21–25 years, and mild anaemia was the most prevalent (62%), followed by moderate (24%) and severe anaemia (14%). Adverse perinatal outcomes such as low birth weight (64.5%), intrauterine growth restriction (64.7%), and perinatal asphyxia (50%) were significantly more common in anaemic mothers. Severe anaemia was strongly associated with stillbirth (66.7%), intrauterine fetal death (75%), and early neonatal death (66.7%). A statistically significant relationship was observed between anaemia severity and fetal complications (p<0.05). Conclusion: Maternal anaemia, especially in its moderate to severe forms, is significantly associated with poor perinatal outcomes. These findings highlight the need for early screening, effective antenatal care, and timely intervention to reduce maternal anaemia and improve neonatal health outcomes.