Fetomaternal outcomes in antenatal women with sickle cell hemoglobinopathies: an observational study from central India

Background: Sickle cell hemoglobinopathies, especially prevalent in tribal populations of central India, pose significant obstetric and neonatal risks. Early recognition and high-risk pregnancy management are essential in minimizing complications. Objective was to analyze fetomaternal and labor outcomes in antenatal mothers with sickle cell hemoglobinopathies (SCD and SCT) attending a tertiary care center in Chhattisgarh. Methods: A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted at RIMS, Raipur, over 18 months. A total of 75 antenatal women in the third trimester diagnosed with sickle cell hemoglobinopathies were enrolled. Clinical data on maternal (anemia, PIH, ICU stay), fetal (birth weight, NICU admission, Apgar scores), and labor outcomes (gestational age, delivery mode) were collected and analyzed using SPSS v28.0. Results: Out of 75 participants, 93.3% had sickle cell trait (HbAS) and 6.6% had sickle cell disease (HbSS). Anemia was present in 65.3% (mild in 40%, moderate in 18.7%, severe in 6.6%). PIH occurred in 13.3%, and 2.7% required ICU admission. No postpartum hemorrhage or maternal mortality was noted. LBW was observed in 45.3%, NICU admission in 17.3%, Apgar<7 at 1 minute in 18.7%. Cesarean section was performed in 77.3% of cases, and preterm birth occurred in 22.7%. Conclusions: Sickle cell hemoglobinopathies are associated with a high burden of maternal anemia, hypertensive disorders, and adverse neonatal outcomes. Enhanced antenatal surveillance, multidisciplinary care, and community-based screening are recommended to improve outcomes in high-prevalence regions.