Abstract Background: Early-onset neonatal sepsis (EONS) remains a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Maternal infections and intrapartum complications play a pivotal role in the occurrence of EONS. This study aimed to identify maternal risk factors associated with early-onset neonatal sepsis in a tertiary care setting in Central India. Methods: This observational study was conducted over 18 months in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal. Mothers whose neonates were diagnosed with early-onset sepsis were included. Maternal demographic, obstetric, and clinical parameters were analyzed. Key maternal risk factors were identified using descriptive analysis. Results: A total of 170 mother–neonate pairs were included. The majority of mothers were aged 20–30 years, and most were multigravida. Prolonged rupture of membranes (≥18 hours) was observed in 32.9% of cases, pre-term birth in 47.1%, cesarean section associated in 47.6% and meconium-stained amniotic fluid in 17.6%. Male gender (61.8%) and low birth weight (<2500 g; 70%) were common neonatal findings. Blood culture positivity was 20.6%, with Staphylococcus aureus being the predominant organism. Significant associations were found between EONS and maternal factors such as PROM, prolonged labor, and reduced ANC visits. Conclusion: Prolonged rupture of membranes, pre-term birth and inadequate antenatal care were key maternal determinants of early-onset neonatal sepsis. Improved antenatal care and timely intrapartum interventions can reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality associated with EONS.
International Journal of Medical Science and Innovative Research (IJMSIR) (Sat,) studied this question.