Abstract
Objective: This research aimed to evaluate the risk factors associated with prematurity and low birth weight of parturient newborns at the extremes of reproductive life. Methods: The study included 1,117 medical records of pregnant women. A research protocol previously formulated by the researchers was used to record maternal sociodemographic characteristics, as well as data on: parity; gestational age; prenatal care; complications; route of delivery; and others. Results: The findings showed that in the group of mothers older than 34 years, the occurrence of less than six prenatal consultations and the fifth minute Apgar score less than seven predict higher chances of prematurity and low birth weight. Conclusion: It is concluded that maternal age significantly influences the occurrence of preterm birth and low birth weight, being essential justifying more active state health policies in relation to quality prenatal care