The challenge of grandmultiparity in Nigerian obstetric practice.

A retrospective analysis of 733 Nigerian grandmultiparae seen at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) over a 3 year period was carried out. A high incidence of grandmultiparity (11%) was noted, and most of them (62%) belonged to the lower socioeconomic class. Anemia, hypertensive diseases, abruptio placentae, breech presentation and abnormal lie were significant complications of grandmultiparity. The incidence of multiple pregnancy, low birthweight babies, cesarean deliveries and perinatal deaths were markedly increased in the grandmultipara. Improvement in socioeconomic conditions of the populace, health education and widespread practice of family planning are suggested to reduce the incidence of grandmultiparity.