Investigating Factors Affecting Preterm Delivery from the Viewpoint of Physicians and Midwives in Mashhad

Abstract

Premature delivery is a significant risk factor for mortality in both developed and developing nations, causing long-term adverse effects on families in terms of physical, psychological, and economic consequences. This research aimed to examine the elements influencing preterm delivery from the perspectives of obstetrics, gynecology specialists, and midwives in Mashhad, Iran's metropolis. This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 30 medical professionals working in clinics, hospitals, and health facilities in Mashhad in 2020. In this study, 30 medical professionals participated, including 10 obstetrics and gynecology specialists with a mean age of 50±8.0, and 20 midwives with a mean age of 34±4 years. The survey found that premature rupture of the amniotic sac (water sac) was the most frequent factor contributing to preterm delivery, with a frequency of 96.7%. This was followed by uterine abnormality, preeclampsia, and chorioamnionitis, each with a frequency of 93.3%. Other factors such as a history of preterm delivery and multiple pregnancies were also found to impact preterm delivery, with a frequency of 90%. Additionally, the study revealed that stress factors had the highest frequency in the high-impact spectrum, with a frequency of 86.7%. This study is a survey of caregiver’s opinions about preterm birth from one location. The findings revealed that the main causes of preterm delivery were premature rupture of the amniotic sac, uterine abnormalities, preeclampsia, and chorioamnionitis. Furthermore, background factors, such as stress factors and domestic violence in mothers can affect this phenomenon. Overall, these findings highlight the critical role of clinical and lifestyle factors in preterm delivery