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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

birth place intervals, lower birth weights, newborns, Utah County, closed space births

College

Life Sciences

Department

Health Science

Abstract

This study identifies the correlation that exists between short birth space intervals and subsequently lower birth weights in newborns. The sample population was taken from the medical records of woman who gave birth in Utah County between 2000-2006. The medical records were analyzed using secondary data retrieved by the Utah Department of Health. A logistic regression model was used to determine the effect that varying birth space intervals have on birth weight of newborn in combination with several other risk factors. The additional factors included in the regression model were mother’s education level, marital status, number of prenatal care visits, gestational age, abnormalities, tobacco use during pregnancy, and obstetrics score. Women who had less than 24 month between births were more at risk (p-value=.000) to deliver a low birth weight infant (less than 2500 grams or 5.5 lbs). Results of this study indicate that a healthy birth weight in newborns is more likely to be achieved when live births are spaced with at least 24 months between deliveries. From this study, the data indicate waiting at least 24 months between deliveries will result in higher birth weights and more positive birth outcomes. The recommendation for Utah County is to educate and encourage women to increase their birth spacing intervals in order to positively affect both birth weight and birth outcomes of their newborns.

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