Maternal and neonatal complications of macrosomia

Abstract

This case control study, aimed at identifying complications of macrosomia, was conducted in two major hospitals of Yaoundé, Cameroon over a 6-month period from 1 October 2012. Maternity records were compared of births weighing ≥4000 g with those weighing between 3000 g and 3500 g. The main outcome variables were mode of delivery, low genital lacerations, Apgar score, birth injuries, postpartum haemorrhage and early neonatal death. Data were analysed using SPSS 18.0. Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test and t-test were used for comparison. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Maternal complications observed were poor uterine contractions during labour, second-degree perineal tears, Caesarean section, instrumental delivery and postpartum haemorrhage. Neonatal complications were birth injuries, poor 5-minute Apgar score and early neonatal death. In our setting, macrosomia is associated with increased maternal and neonatal complications.