Al- Anbar Medical Journal

Abstract

Background: Several reports demonstrated a high prevalence rate of low birth weight in Iraq, which was attributed to sanctions. This study was carried out to report on the effect of maternal stress on birth weight.Materials: A total of 400 singleton newborns delivered in Elwayia Maternity Teaching hospital and Al-Habibia Maternity and Paediatrics Teaching Hospital, in Baghdad City during the period 15th June to 15 Nov. 2003 were included in the study. Information regarding the mothers were collected by direct interview. Data requested were gestational age, social support, and psychological stress. Birth weight was taken from case records.Results: Half of the neonates were born with low birth weight. A significant association between low birth weights and stress scale was noticed. A negative significant association between social support and rate of low birth weight was demonstrated.Conclusions: The finding of the study suggests that support intervention may an effective approach in reducing the rate of low birth weight.