Maternal Outcomes in Referred vs. Non-Referred Obstetric Cases: A Comparative Evaluation in a Tertiary Care Center.

Background: Referred obstetric cases often present with complications due to delayed intervention, posing increased risks to maternal health. This study aims to evaluate and compare maternal outcomes between referred and non-referred deliveries at a tertiary care center. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 300 pregnant women admitted for delivery, equally divided into referred and non-referred groups. Data on delivery type, complications, and maternal morbidity were collected and analyzed using SPSS. Results: Cesarean delivery was significantly higher in referred cases (68%) than in non-referred cases (42%). Maternal complications, such as postpartum hemorrhage (10% vs. 3.3%), ICU admissions (8% vs. 1.3%), and mortality (1.3% vs. 0%), were more frequent in the referred group. Conclusion: Referred obstetric cases are at higher risk of complications. Strengthening peripheral health systems and timely referral are essential to improving maternal outcomes.