Abstract: Abnormal gestational weight gain (GWG) is a significant concern for maternal and child health in low- and middle-income countries like Rwanda. Insufficient GWG is linked to adverse outcomes such as low birth weight, preterm birth, perinatal mortality, and small-for-gestational-age infants, while excessive GWG is associated with metabolic complications, cesarean delivery, and childhood obesity. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of abnormal GWG among pregnant women attending private hospitals in Kigali City, Rwanda. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 pregnant women, selected through systematic random sampling from selected private hospitals. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical records. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were performed using STATA version 17. The results indicated that the prevalence of excess GWG was 54.9%, while inadequate GWG was 18.8%. Factors significantly associated with excess GWG included higher education levels (AOR = 4.94, 95% CI: 2.48–9.84, p < 0.001), taking IFA supplements (AOR = 4.3, 95% CI: 2.01–9.20, p < 0.001), taking deworming supplements (AOR = 8.61, 95% CI: 3.29–22.56, p < 0.001), and reduced physical activity (e.g., weekly activity: AOR = 13.84, 95% CI: 4.79–39.98, p < 0.001). Conversely, older maternal age (>35 years) (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.21–0.92, p = 0.028), public employment (AOR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.06–0.28, p < 0.001), and receiving nutrition advice (AOR = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.03–0.14, p < 0.001) were associated with lower odds of excess GWG. For inadequate GWG, significant factors included older maternal age (>35 years) (AOR = 12.15, 95% CI: 5.59–26.44, p < 0.001), public employment (AOR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.37–6.11, p = 0.005), and alcohol use (AOR = 209.7, 95% CI: 11.72–3750.71, p < 0.001). Protective factors against inadequate GWG included longer birth intervals (≥2 years) (AOR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.24–0.91, p = 0.025), taking IFA supplements (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.10–0.44, p < 0.001), and taking rest (AOR = 0.0045, 95% CI: 0.00–0.08, p < 0.001). These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address abnormal GWG. Programs should focus on improving antenatal care services through nutritional counseling, promoting physical activity, addressing short birth intervals, and ensuring access to IFA and deworming supplements. Additionally, interventions should prioritize older women, public employees, and those with risky behaviors such as alcohol use to improve maternal and child health outcomes.
Keywords: Factors, Abnormal Gestational, Weight Gain, Pregnant Women, Private Hospitals, Kigali City.
Title: Prevalence and Associated Factors of Abnormal Gestational Weight Gain among Pregnant Women in Selected Private Hospitals in Kigali City
Author: Ms. MUKANEZA Honorine, Dr. Habtu Michael Fissehaye
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025
Page No: 200-214
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 13-June-2025
