Prevalence of Otologic Symptoms (Tinnitus, Hearing Loss) During Puerperium—A Cross-Sectional Survey of Postnatal Women at Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical & Health Sciences, Dehradun, India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69980/ajpr.v25i2.701Keywords:
.Abstract
Background: The puerperium, the period following childbirth, is characterized by significant physiological and hormonal changes. While systemic changes are well-documented, the potential impact on the auditory system remains less explored, particularly in the Indian context. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of otologic symptoms, specifically tinnitus and hearing loss, among postnatal women in a tertiary care hospital in Dehradun.
Objectives: The primary objective was to ascertain the point prevalence of subjective tinnitus and perceived hearing loss in puerperal women. Secondary objectives were to identify associated factors such as mode of delivery, parity, and anemia.
Methods: A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2021 to December 2021 at Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical & Health Sciences. A total of 385 postnatal women between 48 hours and 6 weeks postpartum were enrolled via consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule, which included a demographic and clinical proforma and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI). Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) was performed on a subset of participants reporting symptoms. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests.
Result: The mean age of participants was 25.4 ± 3.7 years. The overall prevalence of tinnitus was 18.2% (n=70), and that of perceived hearing loss was 8.1% (n=31). Of the women reporting tinnitus, 45.7% (n=32) described it as mild (THI score 1-16). A significant association was found between the occurrence of tinnitus and a history of cesarean section (p = 0.038). Anemia (Hb < 11 g/dL) was present in 62.3% of women with otologic symptoms. PTA confirmed sensorineural hearing loss in 8 out of 31 women reporting hearing loss.
Conclusions: Otologic symptoms are not uncommon during the puerperium. A significant proportion of postnatal women in our cohort reported tinnitus and hearing loss, with cesarean delivery and anemia being potential contributing factors. These findings underscore the need for increased clinical awareness and inclusion of basic otologic screening in postnatal care protocols.
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