Assessing the Link between Placental Morphology and Morphometry and Neonatal Features at Term: Insights from a Hospital-Based Study

Background: The placenta serves as a crucial interface between maternal and foetal circulation, undergoing dynamic changes throughout pregnancy to attain optimal structural complexity by term. This study aimed to explore potential correlations between neonatal features (Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, Respiration - APGAR score, and birth weight) and placental morphology and morphometry at term.

Methods: Using a hospital-based cross-sectional design and systematic sampling, we meticulously examined and measured 250 placentae post-delivery, while simultaneously recording neonatal features. Descriptive (Mean ± SD and frequency) and Inferential (ANOVA, Chi-square, and Independent t-test) statistical analyses were conducted, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05.

Results: Among the 250 placentae analysed, statistically significant associations were discovered between placental shape and birth weight (p=0.026), placental thickness and birth weight (p=0.001), placental weight and birth weight (p=0.001), placental diameter and birth weight (p=0.001), as well as the number of cotyledons and birth weight (p=0.01). Conversely, no substantial relationship was observed between placental parameters and neonatal APGAR scores.

Conclusion: The findings propose that placental morphometry holds potential as a more robust predictor of foetal outcomes compared to morphology. Further comprehensive research is recommended to elucidate the nuanced dynamics of this relationship, providing crucial insights for refining and advancing prenatal care strategies.