Abstract

Introduction: Unwanted pregnancy is a general and universal problem which causes physical, mental and economic problems for mother. The increased risk of miscarriage, premature delivery and low birth weight infants is higher in these women. These mothers neglect about prenatal care that in addition to low birth weight and short gestational age at birth, these neonates are more susceptible to illness, mortality, and misconduct.Therefore, this study was performed with aim to compare infants� growth indicators in two groups of wanted and unwanted pregnancy. Methods: This descriptive-analytic study (prospective cohort) was performed on 1000 pregnant women referred to health centers of Sanandaj from 2014 to 2015. Data collection tool was a questionnaire which was completed by interviews with mothers and infants� growth indicators were measured with standard scales, meter, and stadiometer. Data was analyzed by SPSS software (version 20), and T- test and Chi-square test. PResults: Mean growth indicators of infants (weight, height and head circumference) at birth, 2, 4 and 6 months was significantly lower in case group than control group (P= 0.000).Based on t-test, there was statistically significant differences between wanted and unwanted pregnancy groups in terms of infants� growth indicators (weight, height and head circumference) at birth, 2, 4 and 6 months (P<0.01). Conclusion: Unwanted pregnancy affects infants� growth indicators and reduces growth in newborns. Also, women with unwanted pregnancy have more normal vaginal delivery and preterm birth. © 2016, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.