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Abstract

Background: Gestational thrombocytopenia is the second most common hematological abnormality during pregnancy after anemia, often diagnosed incidentally during routine antenatal care. It poses significant clinical concern due to its association with maternal bleeding risks and adverse perinatal outcomes. Despite its prevalence, there is limited regional data assessing its frequency and obstetric implications, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study was conducted to evaluate the frequency of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy and to assess associated fetomaternal outcomes.
Objective: To determine the frequency of thrombocytopenia in pregnant females and analyze fetomaternal outcomes in those diagnosed with thrombocytopenia.
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted over six months (June 20, 2024 to December 20, 2024) at the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College Hospital, Sukkur. A total of 100 pregnant women aged 18–40 years with gestational age >32 weeks and no prior medical complications were enrolled through consecutive sampling. Blood samples were obtained to assess platelet counts. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count <150,000/µL. Participants were followed until delivery, and outcomes such as antepartum hemorrhage, preterm labor, emergency cesarean delivery, and postpartum hemorrhage were documented. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0.
Results: The mean age of participants was 28.61 ± 7.02 years, and mean gestational age was 34.79 ± 2.10 weeks. The median platelet count was 199.0 ×10³/µL (IQR: 134.00). Gestational thrombocytopenia was identified in 43% (n=43) of cases. Among these, 18.6% experienced antepartum hemorrhage, 62.8% had preterm labor, 76.7% underwent emergency cesarean delivery, and 41.9% developed postpartum hemorrhage. Socioeconomic status had a statistically significant association with thrombocytopenia (p < 0.05), while other variables, including age, parity, BMI, hypertension, diabetes, anemia, and family history, showed no significant impact (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: The frequency of gestational thrombocytopenia is high and significantly contributes to adverse obstetrical outcomes. Early identification through regular screening may help mitigate these complications.