Abstract:
Background: Anemia is one of the factors that can lead to adverse maternal and prenatal
outcomes. Although, the prevalence of maternal anemia in Ethiopian Somali Regional state is
unacceptably high, there are no adequate documented studies quantifying its adverse pregnancy
outcomes.
Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the association between anemia during
pregnancy and maternal and prenatal complications in Karamara Hospital, Jigjiga, Ethiopian
Somali Regional State
Methods: Facility based prospective cohort study was conducted between October 1, 2015 and
January 1, 2016. 264 pregnant women participated in the study (132 with anemia and 132
without anemia). Data were collected using structured interviewer guided questionnaires and
clinical examination check lists. Anemia was defined based on WHO definition (Hb<11g/dl). Hb
estimation was done using HemoCue301 in the third trimester at the 4th ANC visit by two
qualified medical laboratory technicians. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate Cox
regression analysis was performed. The outcome variables were postpartum blood loss,
prolonged labor, obstructed labor, low birth weight, preterm birth and Low Apgar score. The
results were reported using both p-value and HR with 95% CI. Data were analyzed using SPSS
version 20.0 statistical software.
Result: Anemia during pregnancy was associated with low birth weight and preterm birth (AHR
= 2.23, CI = 1.06-4.70) and (AHR = 3.03, CI = 1.10-8.34) respectively. Anemia during
pregnancy was not significantly associated with mode of delivery, duration of second stage
labor, low Apgar score, post partum blood loss as well as obstructed labor.
Conclusion and recommendation: Anemia during pregnancy was significantly associated with
low birth weight and preterm birth. Anemia control programs including nutritional counseling
and routine iron supplementation should be strengthened
