Comparative Analysis of Haematological Profile in Women After Caesarean and Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery

Abstract

Postpartum haemorrhage and related haematological disturbances are major contributors to maternal morbidity and mortality. Mode of delivery may influence early postpartum haematological recovery. This study compared the haematological profiles of women who underwent caesarean section (CS) and spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD) to evaluate the impact of delivery type on complete blood count parameters. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 50 postpartum women at Uniosun Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. Venous blood samples were collected within 24 hours of delivery and analysed using a h a e m a t o l o g y a n a l y z e r. H a e m o g l o b i n concentration, red cell indices, white blood cell count, and platelet parameters were assessed. Data were analysed using SPSS version 22.0, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Women in the SVD group had significantly lower mean haemoglobin (8.02±1.33g/dL) than those in the CS group (10.58±2.52g/dL; p=0.002). Red cell indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC) were also significantly lower in the SVD group. While total white blood cell count showed no significant difference. The SVD group had higher neutrophil and lower lymphocyte percentages (p<0.05), indicating a stronger acute inflammatory response. No significant differences were observed in platelet parameters between the groups. Mode of delivery significantly influences early postpartum haematological recovery, particularly red and white cell parameters. Future studies should explore long-term haematological trends and the effect of maternal comorbidities on recovery trajectories.