Vol. 8, Issue 3, Part A (2025)

Background: Post-term pregnancy, defined as a gestation beyond 42 weeks, is associated with increased maternal and neonatal complications. Despite global awareness, regional data on its incidence and consequences remain limited, particularly in Iraq.
Objective: This study aimed to determine the incidence of postdate and post-term pregnancies and evaluate their impact on maternal and fetal outcomes among pregnant women attending primary health care centers in Basrah, Iraq.
Methods: A prospective follow-up study was conducted from May 2013 to January 2014 involving 257 third-trimester pregnant women, of whom 203 completed follow-up. Data were collected via structured interviews and antenatal records. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were assessed and analyzed using SPSS version 20, with a significance level of p<0.05.
Results: The incidence of postdate pregnancy (>41 weeks) was 10.4%, while post-term pregnancy (>42 weeks) was 1.0%. No socio-demographic or clinical factor showed a statistically significant association with postdate pregnancy. However, postdate pregnancies were significantly associated with higher rates of labor induction (22.2%), cesarean delivery (62.9%), postpartum hemorrhage (22.2%, p<0.001), fever (11.1%, P=0.039), oligohydramnios (22.2%, P=0.011), macrosomia (25.9%, p<0.001), and NICU admissions (48.1%, p<0.001).
Conclusion: While the incidence of post-term pregnancy aligns with global figures, postdate pregnancy significantly increases the risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Early identification and appropriate obstetric management are crucial to reducing complications associated with prolonged gestation.