Asian Research Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics

Background: Eclampsia is an important cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The incidence varies widely from country to country. This study is carried to detect the prevalence and fetomaternal outcome of Eclamptic patients admitted in Obstetrics and gynaecology department of ShSMCH.

Methods: This cross-sectional prospective study done from Dec’2014 to May’2015. 100 cases were taken for study. The data was analyzed by computer software SPSS 22.

Results: Among 3482 Obstetric admissions, the Eclampsia patient was 382. The incidence of Eclampsia is 7.03%. 67% patient were primi, 82% between 15 to 25 years of age, 75% were illiterate or had only primary education. 52% came from low socio-economic group and 56% Patients had convulsion after 37 weeks of pregnancy. At the time of admission 63% were unconscious. 60 patients were delivered by LSCS. 6% patients expired and 13% patients had developed pulmonary oedema, HELLP (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count) syndrome, DIC, renal failure and obstetric shock. Among the perinatal death, 28% were stillbirth and 9% were early neonatal death. Maternal age <20 years, primigravida without antenatal care and number of convulsions >10 were associated with higher stillbirth rate.

Conclusion: Eclampsia is one of the major causes of maternal death in Bangladesh. Poor social status, lack of education and lack of maternal care are the main factors. It can be prevented by regular antenatal care, early diagnosis and management of pre-Eclampsia and hypertensive disease. Health education and creating general public awareness can decrease the incidence of Eclampsia and its complications.