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.
Key words: neonatal blood sugar levels, hypoglycemia in neonates, breastfeeding