Abstract

Introduction: Low birth weight (LBW) is one of the most important adverse consequences of pregnancy and also of the serious health problems in the world. Although several risk factors are reported for this phenomenon, but some problems during previous pregnancies could be considered as LBW predisposing factors. This study was performed with aim to determine the relationship between maternal and neonatal factors during previous pregnancies and low birth weight in Iran through a systematic review and meta-analysis study. Methods: In this systematic review and meta-analysis study, the information about the relationship between maternal and neonatal factors with low birth weight during previous pregnancies in Iran was independently extracted from all articles published from 1996 to the end of 2015 by searching in databases of SID, Medline, ISI, Irandoc, Google Scholar, Pubmed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science and Magiran by using relevant key words and their combinations by two trained researchers. Data analysis was performed using random and fixed effects model in meta-analysis and Cochrane software STATA (version 11.1) and SPSS (version 16) were used to assess the publication bias from funnel plot and heterogeneity studies. P< 0.05 was considered significant. Results: In the initial search of 48 papers, 21 articles were selected to enter the study. There was significant relationship between the history of abortion, history of the birth of a neonate with LBW, unwanted pregnancy, parity and number of pregnancy. The history of low birth weight during previous pregnancies with OR: 2.68 (CI95: 2.12-3.39) and the number of mother’s pregnancy with OR:1.12 (CI95: 0.94-1.34) had the most and the least relationship with low birth weight newborns, respectively. Conclusion: According to significant relationship between the history of abortion, the history of low birth weight, unwanted pregnancy, the number of pregnancy and parity with birth of LBW newborns, health and medical directors can prevent the birth of LBW neonates by more attention to high risk mothers and taking appropriate actions. © 2016 Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. All Rights Reserved.