Objective: To investigate the risk factors associated with perinatal packed red blood cell transfusion.
Methods: We performed univariable analysis and unconditional multivarible logistic regression analysis to identify risk factors associated with perinatal packed red blood cell transfusion in 19 456 obstetrical inpatients.
Results: The transfusion rate was 1.49% (289/19,456). Prenatal hematocrit (HCT) less than 25% (OR 45.3, 95% CI 27.4-74.9), placenta previa (OR 16.8, 95% CI 11.6-24.3), prenatal HCT 25%-30% (OR 11.4, 95% CI 6.7-19.7), ethnic minority (OR 4.8, 95% CI 1.6-14.0), placenta abruption (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.7-11.5), multiple gestation (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.6-4.9) and preeclampsia (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.5-4.4) were risk factors associated with perinatal packed red blood cell transfusion.
Conclusion: Although the overall perinatal transfusion rate is low, severe prenatal anemia (HCT 25%) and placenta previa can increase the risk of transfusion markedly. It is crucial for obstetricians to provide appropriate perinatal care for those patients.