Changes in Maternal Socio-Demographic Characteristics and Pregnancy Outcomes Across Monitoring Regions - Six Provinces, China, 2016-2022.

ABSTRACT

What is already known about this topic? In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the proportion of women of advanced maternal age (AMA), accompanied by a rise in adverse pregnancy outcomes in certain regions of China. What is added by this report? From 2016 to 2022, there was an observed increase in the proportion of AMA, educational levels, and incidences of preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW) in both primiparous and multiparous women. Concurrently, there was a declining trend in the rate of cesarean deliveries and the incidence of macrosomia among multiparous women. What are the implications for public health practice? In addition to focusing on health management for AMA individuals, proactive steps should be undertaken to enhance the quality of medical services and promote childbirth at optimal ages, thereby reducing the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes.