[Risk factors and perinatal consequences of short interpregnancy interval: a retrospective case-control study]

Abstract

Objectives: To study the maternal risk factors and perinatal complications of a short interpregnancy interval.

Patients and methods: Retrospective case-control study between 2007 and 2009, comparing a group with a short interpregnancy interval (less than 9 months, n=83), and a control group (interval between two pregnancies between 18 and 24 months, n=166).

Results: The main risk factor of short interpregnancy interval is to be unemployed (OR=3.2, P<0.001). There is a significant link between lack of prescription contraceptives in postpartum and a short interval between pregnancies (OR=3.4, P<0.001). We also found a higher rate of anemic women during pregnancy (OR=4.9, P=0.001) and postpartum (OR=2.1, P=0.02) in case of short interpregnancy interval. Short interpregnancy interval increases risk of small for gestational age (OR=2.4, P=0.05) and thermoregulation disorders (OR=3.1, P=0.02).

Conclusion: A low socioeconomic level is a risk factor of short interpregnancy interval. Short interpregnancy interval is at risk of maternal iron deficiency and neonatal complications like low birth weight and hypothermia.