Analysis of the German perinatal survey of the years 2007-2011 and comparison with data from 1995-1997: neonatal characteristics and duration of pregnancy

Background and aim: We have previously analysed neonatal characteristics and duration of pregnancy in Germany based on data from the German Perinatal Survey of 1995-1997. Here we describe neonatal characteristics and duration of pregnancy based on the German Perinatal Survey of 2007-2011.

Material and methods: We had been provided with data from the German Perinatal Survey of 1995-1997 by the chambers of physicians of all the states of Germany except Baden-Württemberg (1 815 318 singleton neonates). We were also provided with access to the perinatal survey data of 2007-2011 by the AQUA Institute in Göttingen, Germany (3 187 920 singleton neonates). We investigated regional differences within Germany and also compared the 2 periods of time. We used the computer programme SPSS for data analysis and performed plausibility checks on the survey data.

Results: Comparing the states of Germany, we found that birth weight was largest for neonates born in Schleswig-Holstein (3 407 g) and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (3 392 g); the lowest mean birth weight was observed in the Saarland (3 283 g). Preterm birth rate varied between 6.3% (Saxony) and 8.1% (Bremen, Saarland). Comparing 1995-1997 vs. 2007-2011, deliveries after 37 and 38 weeks of gestation were more common and deliveries after 39 and more weeks of gestation were less common in the later period of time.

Conclusions: Regional differences in the anthropometric characteristics of neonates exist between the states of Germany. The proportion of deliveries after 39 and more weeks of gestation has decreased.