Obstetric outcomes in immigrants of African nationality

Abstract

African women delivering in the Maltese Islands are either regular or irregular migrants. The latter group presents significant socio-economic problems.

Objective: This study sets out to compare the obstetric outcomes of African-nationals delivering in Malta to the general population.

Study design: The obstetric data of three subgroups of women – those from the Maghreb region; the sub-Saharan and Horn of Africa; and the overall population registered for the Maltese Islands were obtained using the computerised National Obstetrics Information System.

Results: Women from the sub-Saharan regions were statistically younger than those from the Maghreb region or the general population. African women from both regions were more likely to be multiparous; and were more likely to have experienced a previous perinatal loss. The multiple pregnancy rates were significantly higher in both African groups. Women from the sub-Saharan region were more likely to suffer from sexual and blood-borne infections. African women had lower obstetric intervention rates but higher operative deliveries. Infants born to African women were more likely to be premature and of low birth weight.

Conclusion: Women originating from the African continent particularly from the sub-Saharan regions present socio-biological and cultural differences which can contribute towards adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes.