Kurawa and Asiat, J Biomed & App Sci FUD (2024) 3:1
Keywords: Primigravida; multigravida; cognitive functions; pregnancy; Kano-Nigeria.
2024-07-02 DOI: JOBASFUD-2024-3-1-009
Background: In Nigeria, mental health in pregnant women is often overlooked during antenatal care, with more emphasis given to physical health. This neglect of cognitive aspects can have serious consequences for both mothers and children. Unfortunately, there is limited and non-comprehensive research on the area. Aim and Objectives: This study aims at evaluating the cognitive functions of primigravidae and multigravidae attending the antenatal clinic of Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital Kano. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 120 primigravidae and 180 multigravidae. Vital signs were measured and cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination in their third trimester of pregnancy. Results: Multigravidae were typically older (26 years) and had a higher proportion of individuals with secondary (81%) education compared to primigravidae (22 years). Most women in both groups have no cognitive impairment; However, severe cognitive impairment was more prevalent in multigravidae (17%) than in primigravidae (1%). The results of the chi-square test reveal a significant and strong association between gravidity and the severity of cognitive impairment (p < 0.001). Primigravidae experiences a higher frequency of miscarriages at the 8th and 12th weeks compared to multigravidae at the 8th and 16th weeks. Multigravidae have significantly higher blood pressure [(BP) 119/79 mmHg] than primigravidae (116/77 mmHg), higher pulse rate [(PR) 84 bpm vs. 82 bpm], and an elevated respiratory rate [ (RR)14 cpm vs. 12 cpm]. Both groups have similar body temperatures. Conclusion: The majority of participants do not have cognitive impairment. Among those who do, the impairment was more severe in multigravidae. The severity of cognitive impairment was significantly and strongly linked to the number of pregnancies. Additionally, multigravidae have significantly higher BP, PR, and RR.