Maternal Anemia During Pregnancy: A Major Determinant of Adverese Neonatal Outcomes in Margono Soekarjo Regional General Hospital – A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Maternal anemia may compromise uteroplacental perfusion and increase the risk of adverse neonatal outcomes, such as preterm birth, low Apgar scores, fetal distress, IUGR, and low birth weight. Maternal hemoglobin levels may serve as an early predictor of neonatal complications and guide timely interventions to improve neonatal well-being.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted using secondary medical record data of pregnant women with anemia and delivered at Prof. Dr. Margono Soekardjo Hospital, Purwokerto, Indonesia, January 2025 - January 2026. Consecutive sampling was applied. Associations between maternal anemia and neonatal outcomes were analyzed using the Chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression.
Results: A total of 112 samples were included, with 23% having hemoglobin levels <11 g/dL. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between maternal anemia and preterm birth, low birth weight, and low 5-minute Apgar score (p < 0.05; RR = 5.19; RR = 4.91; RR = 4.02). Multivariable logistic regression confirmed that maternal anemia was independently associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and low Apgar score (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Maternal anemia is significantly associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. Early detection and management of anemia during pregnancy may help reduce perinatal complications.