Obstetric outcome among adolescent primigravidae delivering at Muhimbili National Hospital Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Background: The number of adolescent pregnancies has increased throughout the world, and these pregnancies are reported in association with a higher rate of maternal and fetal complications. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare obstetric outcome among adolescents and none- adolescents’ primigravidae. Methods: A prospective study was carried out during mid September to mid December 2001 at Muhimbili National Hospital to compare obstetric outcome of the first pregnancies of 190 adolescents with that of 20-34 years old primigravidae who delivered at the same period of the study. Results: Poor antenatal supervision and low frequency of antenatal check up were observed in adolescents. Adverse fetal outcome, like prematurity, low birth weight and perinatal mortality were significantly high in adolescents. Prolonged labor and premature rupture of membranes were also significantly higher in adolescents. Observed maternal complications in adolescents were anaemia, preeclampsia and eclampsia. Conclusion: The study findings show that young maternal age is associated with an increased risk of unfavourable fetal and maternal outcome. Thus adolescent pregnant mothers need improved prenatal care and close monitoring and care during labor.