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Miscarriage and its association with violence, alcohol and tobacco consumption in India: Evidence from NFHS 4 (2015-16)

Bishwajeet Besra, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Chandrima Paul, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

Miscarriage is defined as the spontaneous or accidental expulsion of the foetal life that occurs at an early stage of pregnancy. According to NFHS-4, 6% of the total pregnancies resulted in miscarriages. Miscarriages are particularly high for women age 15-19 years and women living in urban areas than rural areas. In India,1% women drink alcohol,6.8% use tobacco and 3.9% have experienced violence during pregnancy. The objective of the study is to assess the impact of domestic violence, alcohol and tobacco consumption on miscarriage. The data source used in this study is the 4th round of National Family and Health Survey data of 2015-2016. Bivariate analysis with chi-square test was carried out with different socioeconomic determinants and major risk factors. Further, logistic regression with interaction terms was implemented to examine the effect of major risk factors to pregnancy. The early age groups 15-19, socially backward groups and secondary education attainment showed higher prevalence of miscarriage. The results from logistic regression elucidates that younger age groups, consumption of alcohol and tobacco are significantly associated with higher odds of miscarriage, whereas religion, place of residence and wealth index have no significant association with miscarriage. Violence during pregnancy can also be associated with miscarriage.

Keywords: Fertility and childbirth

See extended abstract.

  Presented in Session P2.