ASSOCIATION OF MATERNAL PERIODONTITIS IN WOMEN DELIVERING PRETERM, LOW BIRTH WEIGHT AND PRETERM LOW BIRTH WEIGHT INFANTS

Abstract

Background: Maternal periodontal disease has been proposed as a potential independent risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Periodontal pathogens and their by-products may reach the fetoplacental unit via hematogenous spread, leading to localized placental inflammation, increased prostaglandin production, and subsequent initiation of preterm labor or restriction of fetal growth Aim & Objectives: The present study was conducted to assess the periodontal status among pregnant women and to evaluate the association between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes , namely preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW), and preterm low birth weight (PTLBW). Material & Methods: The present hospital-based observational analytical study with a cross-sectional framework was conducted among 110 pregnant women who attended antenatal clinics. The study was carried out over a period of 6 months. All eligible participants delivering during this period were screened and recruited consecutively. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the institutional ethical committee, and informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to their inclusion in the study. The study population consisted of pregnant women within the reproductive age group who were willing to participate in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information regarding demographic characteristics, oral hygiene practices, and other relevant variables. Clinical examination was carried out using standardized periodontal indices including the Community Periodontal Index (CPI) and Loss of Attachment (LOA) as recommended by the World Health Organization for epidemiological studies. Clinical periodontal parameters including plaque index, probing depth, and clinical attachment loss were recorded using a periodontal probe under adequate illumination. The data obtained from the questionnaire and clinical examination were systematically recorded and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Results: The study findings also demonstrated a significant association between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Mothers with periodontal disease were found to have a higher likelihood of delivering infants with low birth weight compared to mothers with healthy periodontal tissues. Similarly, periodontal disease was also associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. Conclusion: Maternal periodontitis may be associated with an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, particularly when both outcomes occur together. Assessment of periodontal health should be considered as an integral component of antenatal healthcare. However, the observational nature of the study does not establish causality, and larger prospective studies using standardized periodontal diagnostic criteria are required.