Burden and Fetomaternal Outcomes of Eclampsia Among Primigravida Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
1Rizwan Shahid, 2Dr Nazia Suleman, 1Babar Shah, 1Javed Akhtar
1Mayo Hospital Lahore
2AP Abu Umara Medical & Dental College, Lahore
Vol: 16/03
Received: January 25, 2026 Accepted: March 02, 2026 Published: July 06, 2026
ABSTRACT:
Background: Understanding the frequency and fetomaternal outcomes of eclampsia in this demographic is critical for improving clinical management and outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings. Eclampsia, characterized by seizures in the context of preeclampsia, is a significant contributor to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Its occurrence in primigravida poses unique challenges due to their first exposure to pregnancyrelated physiological changes. Aim: The study aimed to determine the frequency of eclampsia in primigravida and evaluate the associated fetomaternal outcomes at a tertiary care hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan. Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar over a period of 12 months, from October 2023 to September 2024. Data were collected from 50 primigravida patients diagnosed with eclampsia, identified through hospital records. The inclusion criteria were primigravida patients with clinical and diagnostic evidence of eclampsia. Results: The frequency of eclampsia among primigravida admitted to the hospital during the study period was 4.3%. The majority of patients (68%) were aged between 18 and 25 years, with the mean gestational age at presentation being 34.5 weeks. Cesarean delivery was performed in 70% of cases due to maternal or fetal indications. Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for early identification and timely management of preeclampsia to prevent progression to eclampsia. Strengthening antenatal care services, particularly in resource-constrained settings, is imperative for reducing the burden of this condition and improving outcomes for both mothers and their neonates. Keywords: Eclampsia, Primigravida, Fetomaternal outcomes, Pre-eclampsia, Tertiary care, Neonatal mortality, Maternal morbidity.