Disparities in adverse pregnancy outcomes between advanced maternal age and younger age in Ethiopia: Institution based comparative cross-sectional study

Women older than 35 years are known to beat “advanced maternal age" and considered to be at risk of adverse pregnancy outcome. Data, on adverse birth outcomes and the risk factors are still scarce in developing countries including Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to examine the obstetrical outcomes among primiparous and multiparous women of advanced age (35 and above) when compared to the younger  age group (20 to 34) and identify its predictors among women delivering at public health facilities of Shashemene Town, Ethiopia. Institution based comparative cross sectional study were conducted from March to April, 2016. A consecutive sampling technique was employed to select 306 study participants. Data were collected using pretested structured questionnaires through face to face interview and checklist. Data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify associated factors. A total of 306 mothers were involved in this study with response rate of 100%. Advanced maternal age, antenatal follow up, mode of current delivery and previous caesarian section were factors associated with adverse pregnancy outcome. Key words: Adverse pregnancy outcomes, advanced maternal age, participants.