Abstract

Although Gestational Anaemia (GA) is common in Benin, the period of gestation it is more harmful for the newborn is still unclear. In this study, the effect of timing of GA on newborn’s Haemoglobin (Hb) at birth has been assessed in southern Beninese pregnant women followed-up from the beginning of gestation until delivery. Women’s demographic, anthropometric, and biological data were collected. At birth, newborns were weighed, and cord blood samples collected for Hb concentrations determination. Multivariate logistic and linear regressions were used to assess the effect of GA on newborn anaemia. Gestational anaemia occurring between 25 and 28 weeks of gestation was associated with an important decrease in the newborn’s Hb concentrations (Adjusted coefficient=-11.2 g/L, 95% CI= [-20.9, -1.5], P=0.02) and an increased risk of newborn’s anaemia (adjusted odds ratio=4.5, 95% CI= [2.0, 11.0], P=0.001). Malaria during gestation was also associated with an increased risk for the newborn’s anaemia whereas primigravidity was associated with more than half reduction of the risk of newborn’s anaemia. This result argues in favor of strengthening the preventives measures against GA by promoting their implementation earlier during pregnancy.

Keywords: Gestational anaemia; Newborn’s haemoglobin; Anaemia; Malaria; Benin