Effectiveness of Adequate Antenatal Care in Reducing Adverse Perinatal Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study from an Urban Health Centre in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Background: Antenatal care is a key preventive strategy to reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The World Health Organization recommends a minimum of eight visits during pregnancy to optimize outcomes. Adequate ANC facilitates early detection and management of obstetric complications and promotes safe delivery practices. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of adequate ANC in reducing adverse perinatal outcomes and to determine its association with pregnancy outcomes among women attending an urban health center. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 252 antenatal women attending Urban Health and Training Centre, Multan Nagar, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic profile, obstetric history, ANC visits, Td vaccination, IFA and pregnancy outcomes. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results: Most participants were aged between 15–25 years (59.52%). Nearly half (48.81%) had three ANC visits, while only 16.27% completed four visits. Td vaccination coverage was 83.33%, and 48.81% consumed IFA for three months. Institutional deliveries were 94.84%. Most newborns had normal birth weight, though 40.08% were low birth weight. Conclusion: ANC attendance was associated with favourable outcomes; however, adherence to recommended visits was suboptimal so early registration and follow-up is essential.