Abstract: Background: High birth weight, defined here as ?3.5 kg, though not universally considered macrosomia, is a clinically significant parameter associated with a spectrum of maternal and neonatal complications. With shifting epidemiological trends in maternal health—such as rising obesity and gestational diabetes—the incidence of higher birth weights is increasing, especially in South Asian populations where average maternal anthropometry is smaller.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care Centre in South Gujarat over a period of 12 months. A total of 200 consenting women who delivered babies weighing ?3.5 kg was enrolled. Data regarding sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric and medical history, antenatal care utilization, delivery mode and maternal comorbidities were collected and analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: The majority of women were aged 20–29 years (77%). They were either primiparous (43%) or nulliparous (30.5%). Obesity (BMI >30) was observed in 47%, and 32% had maternal comorbidities, predominantly diabetes mellitus (45.3% of those with comorbidities). Caesarean section was required in a significant proportion of deliveries due to suspected macrosomia, cephalopelvic disproportion, or fetal distress. Birth weights >3.5 kg was significantly associated with higher maternal BMI, GDM, multiparity, and increased incidence of labor complications.
Deliveries involving neonates weighing ?3.5 kg is frequently associated with higher maternal BMI, diabetes, and increased risk of operative delivery and neonatal complications. Early identification of at-risk pregnancies through focused antenatal care and tailored labor management strategies can mitigate adverse feto-maternal outcomes.
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