Risk Factors Affecting the Health of Pregnant Women and Fetus

Bae, Hyun Sook

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the predictors of desirable pregnancy outcomes. The subjects were 795 pregnant women participating in the 2007 Mom and Baby Expo. They were grouped by gestational age: group I (3-12 wk: n = 95), group II (13-25 wks: n = 263) and group III (26-42 wks: n = 437). We collected data for general characteristics, sociocultural factors, life styles and nutrient intakes. We also collected pregnancy outcome data of 634 pregnant women including birth weight, maternal weight gain and gestational age. Dietary intakes of the subjects were estimated by Food Frequency Questionnaire. folate, iron and calcium intakes from foods of pregnant women were 88%, 79% and 58% of KDRIs, respectively. Bivariate analysis showed that birth weight was significantly associated with pre-pregnancy BMI, maternal weight gain, maternal age, gestational age and intakes of iron, potassium, vitaminB1, B6, fatty acids, MUFA. And also, bivariate analysis showed that maternal weight gain was significantly associated with pre-pregnancy BMI, maternal age, gestational age and intakes of energy, potassium. Further multivariate analyses suggest that vitaminB6 may be a significant predictor for low birth weight and energy intake and maternal age for maternal weight gain. Our findings suggest that dietary and lifestyle interventions during pregnancy can improve maternal and infant pregnancy outcomes. Prepregnancy weight control and intakes of energy and vitamin B6 need to be taken into considerations in developing strategic prenatal care programs to promote desirable pregnancy outcome.