SONOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF TRIMESTER WISE PLACENTAL THICKNESS CORRELATION WITH MATERNAL BMI AND ANEMIA

Abstract

Introduction:

The placenta plays a critical role in fetal development by facilitating nutrient and oxygen transfer, producing hormones, and maintaining a protective intrauterine environment. Placental thickness, measurable via ultrasonography, is an important non-invasive indicator of placental growth and fetal well-being. Maternal factors, may influence placental development, yet comprehensive trimester-wise data on these associations remain limited.

Aim of the Study:

This study aimed to evaluate trimester-wise placental thickness and its correlation with maternal BMI and anemia in pregnant women.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Doctor Hospital, Lahore, over four months, including 64 pregnant women between 12–40 weeks of gestation. Participants underwent transabdominal ultrasonography to measure placental thickness. Maternal BMI and hemoglobin levels were recorded, and participants were categorized based on BMI (underweight, normal, overweight, obese) and anemia status (anemic vs. non-anemic).

Results:

Placental thickness increased progressively with advancing gestational age, consistent with physiological expectations. A high prevalence of maternal anemia (67.2%) was observed, and anemic women had lower mean placental thickness compared to non-anemic participants. Overweight and obese women demonstrated increased placental thickness relative to normal and underweight counterparts. Trimester-wise analysis confirmed that maternal BMI and anemia significantly affect placental growth, with observable differences most prominent during the second and third trimesters.

Conclusion:

Maternal BMI and anemia are important determinants of placental thickness.  Ultrasonographic assessment of placental thickness across trimesters provides valuable insight into placental health and can serve as an early indicator of high-risk pregnancies. Monitoring these parameters may facilitate timely interventions to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.