Comparison of Fetomaternal Outcome of Decreased with Normal Fetal Movement at term Pregnancy

Abstract

Background: Maternal perception of fetal movement is an important predictor of fetal wellbeing. Decreased perception of fetal movement by the mother is associated with increased maternal and fetal morbidity. The purpose of this study is to compare the fetomaternal outcome of decreased with normal fetal movement at term pregnancy.
Methods: A comparative study comprising 140 women, 70 cases of normal fetal movement and 70 cases of decreased fetal movement were taken and their fetal and maternal outcomes were compared in terms of maternal and fetal outcome.
Results: The group of females below 20 years old had a higher occurrence of decreased fetal movement 8.7% (n=6) compared to 1.4% (n=1) in the normal fetal movement group. The prevalence of risk factors were similar among both the groups. Induced deliveries were higher in the decreased fetal movement group, 27% (n=19) compared to 21.4% (n=15) in the normal fetal movement.
Caesarian section was more in the decreased fetal movement 54.3% (n=38) compared to 27.1% (n=19) in the normal fetal movement group which is statistically significant. The most common indication of caesarian section was non reassuring cardiotocography which comprised of 15.7%(n=11). Incidence of postpartum hemorrhage was higher in the decreased fetal movement (11.4%,n=8) then normal fetal movement (2.9%,n=2).
Conclusions: Decreased fetal movement in comparison to normal fetal movement has increased operative intervention most common indication being non reassuring cardiotocography. Incidence of post partum hemorrhage was higher in the decreased fetal movement group. Fetal outcomes were similar in both groups.
Keywords: Caesarian Section; decreased fetal movement; fetal outcome; maternal outcome; normal fetal movement.