A Comparison of Neonatal Blood Sugar Levels at Two Hours Postpartum in Normal Labour and Cesarean Section Cases in Makarak Hospital

Abstract

During July to October 2011, a prospective cohort study was performed to compare neonatal blood sugar levels at 2 hours postpartum in normal labour cases (immediate breastfeeding) and cesarean section cases (unfed 2 hours postpartum). According to the inclusion criterias, there were 239 and 55 neonates in normal labour and cesarean section groups. Mean neonatal blood sugar levels at 2 hours postpartum were 62.67 mg% (SD 8.16) and 60.33 mg% (SD 8.41) respectively that was no significant difference. In a group of NPO mothers less than 8 hours before delivery, mean neonatal blood sugar levels at 2 hours postpartum were 63.18 mg% (SD 7.71) and 58.10 mg% (SD 4.32) in normal labour, 125 cases and cesarean section, 20 cases respectively that was significant difference. Neonates fed by mothers who had more amount of breastmilk had highly significant blood sugar levels than those of another group. Health care providers were important for supporting and encouraging exclusive breastfeeding.