Maternal Age as a Determinant of Placental Morphology and Morphometry at Term Pregnancy: A Cross-sectional Study of Selected Hospitals in Rivers State, Southern Nigeria

Abstract

The placenta which is a crucial intermediary in maternal-fetal exchanges, undergoes intricate structural changes throughout gestation, culminating in its fully developed form at term. The potential impact of maternal age on pregnancy and fetal outcomes has generated interest. This study aimed to investigate the intricate relationships between maternal age, and placental morphology and morphometry at term pregnancy. This study was a hospital-based, cross-sectional study with a systematic sampling technique, which meticulously collected and examined 250 placentae postpartum. Rigorous cleansing under running water preceded comprehensive assessments and precise measurements. Detailed maternal histories were obtained to facilitate comprehensive contextual analysis. Descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) were complemented by inferential analyses (ANOVA and Pearson correlation), with significance level set at p<0.05. Among the reviewed placentae (n=250), statistically significant relationships exist between maternal age and some placental parameters. Notably, maternal age exhibited positive associations with placental thickness (p=0.048), placental weight (p=0.014), and the number of cotyledons (p=0.028). However, no statistically significant relationships were identified between maternal age and placental shape (p=0.977) or placental diameter (p=0.070). Maternal age significantly influences pregnancy outcomes. Maternal age affects placental morphometry more than placental morphology.