Pregnancy Outcome Among Grand Multiparous Women at Delta State University, Oghara, Nigeria

A bstract Background: Grand multiparity presents a significant challenge to the obstetrician, especially in developing countries, including Nigeria. Objective: To determine the incidence and complications associated with grand multiparity at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study of grand multiparous women in DELSUTH between July 1, 2014, and June 30, 2023. Data retrieved from the hospital records and case files were analyzed. Results: The results revealed that during the period under review, the incidence of grand multiparity was 7.8% (146 grand multiparous women in 1874 deliveries). The majority (79.1%, n = 106) were para 5 and 6 (mean age: 37 ± 4.2 years). They were mostly farmers (49.3%) and housewives (17.9%) with a primary level of education (41.8%). Fifty-one percent (51.5%) were booked. Anemia (30.6%) and hypertensive disorders (12.7%) were the most common complications in the antenatal period, whereas hypertensive disorders (14.2%) were the most common complications seen during labor. The majority (61.9%) of the women had vaginal delivery. There was one case of maternal mortality (0.7%). The majority of the babies were of normal birth weight (57.3%, n = 82). One hundred and thirty-one of the babies (91.6%) were live births, whereas 8.4% ( n = 12) suffered perinatal death. Conclusion: This study concludes that grand multiparity contributes to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in Oghara, Nigeria.