Maternal and Foetal Outcomes of Jaundice in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Sequential Analytical Approach

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of maternal and foetal outcomes associated with pregnancy-related jaundice, employing a sequential analysis methodology to identify critical risk factors and optimize intervention timing. Through retrospective evaluation of 10 years of hospital records (n=200 cases) and systematic literature review, we identified viral hepatitis (58.3%) and HELLP syndrome (64.86%) as the predominant etiological factors in our study population. The findings reveal alarming mortality and morbidity rates, with maternal mortality reaching 20% and significant fetal complications, including preterm delivery (39.6%) and stillbirth (8.3%). The application of sequential probability ratio testing demonstrated particular efficacy in this clinical context, enabling early termination of data collection upon reaching statistically conclusive results (p<0.0001) while maintaining rigorous standards. This methodological approach not only confirmed the time-sensitive nature of jaundice management but also highlighted its potential for resource-efficient research in obstetric settings. The results underscore the critical need for enhanced antenatal care protocols, particularly in low-resource environments where diagnostic and treatment gaps persist. We advocate for (1) standardized screening programs for hepatic and hematologic disorders in pregnancy, (2) community-based education initiatives to improve early recognition of jaundice symptoms, and (3) targeted healthcare worker training on emergent management of pregnancy-related liver dysfunction. These evidence-based recommendations aim to address the substantial disparities in maternal-fetal outcomes observed in resource-limited settings while demonstrating the value of adaptive research methodologies in clinical obstetrics.