article · SJ Gynecology and Obstetrics Africa
Background: Augmentation of labor using oxytocin is widely practiced to manage inadequate uterine contractions and prevent prolonged labor. However, its use has been associated with adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes, including uterine hyperstimulation, postpartum hemorrhage, fetal distress, and increased operative deliveries. This study assessed the prevalence and immediate adverse birth outcomes among women undergoing augmentation of labor at a tertiary hospital in Southwestern Uganda. Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2024 to April 2025 among 210 women who delivered following oxytocin augmentation at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire and clinical chart review. Immediate adverse birth outcomes were defined as maternal and/or perinatal complications occurring within 24 hours of delivery. Data were analyzed using Stata version 17 to determine prevalence and associated characteristics. Results: The prevalence of immediate adverse birth outcomes was 22.4% (95% CI: 17.2–28.6%). Adverse maternal outcomes alone occurred in 11.0% of participants, perinatal outcomes alone in 7.1%, while 4.3% experienced both. The most common maternal outcomes were caesarean section (6.2%) and postpartum hemorrhage (5.2%). Among perinatal outcomes, low Apgar score (<7 at 5 minutes) and neonatal intensive care unit admission were most frequent (8.1% each). Referral status and marital status showed significant associations with adverse outcomes. Conclusion: The prevalence of immediate adverse birth outcomes following oxytocin augmentation is high, highlighting a significant obstetric concern. Both maternal and neonatal complications remain common in this setting. Recommendation: Strengthening adherence to labor monitoring protocols, particularly the use of the WHO labor care guide, and careful selection and monitoring of women undergoing oxytocin augmentation are essential to reduce adverse birth outcomes.
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DOI: 10.51168/de0ww460
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