The relationship between maternal age and nutritional status during pregnancy and stunting among toddlers

Aura Amelia (Universitas Aisyiyah Yogyakarta)
Intan Mutiara Putri (Universitas Aisyiyah Yogyakarta)
DOI: 10.56922/mchc.v5i6.1 Published: 2026-09-29 pp. 779-785
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Background: Stunting remains a chronic nutritional problem among children under five years of age and may adversely affect physical growth and development. Maternal age and nutritional status during pregnancy are among the factors that may be associated with stunting.

Purpose: To determine the relationship between maternal age and nutritional status during pregnancy and stunting among toddlers.

Method: This study employed an observational analytic design using a case-control approach with a 1:1 case-to-control ratio. The sample consisted of 98 toddlers, including 49 stunted toddlers and 49 toddlers with normal growth. Data were collected using a stadiometer, height-for-age Z-score standards, the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Handbook, and observation sheets. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses. The Chi-square test was used to determine the associations between maternal age, maternal nutritional status during pregnancy, and stunting.

Results: Of the 98 mothers, 36 (36.7%) were in the risk age group (<20 or >35 years), while 62 (63.3%) were aged 20–35 years. Twenty-seven mothers (27.6%) had chronic energy deficiency (CED), while 71 (72.4%) did not. Among the toddlers, 49 (50.0%) were classified as stunted and 49 (50.0%) had normal growth. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between maternal age during pregnancy and stunting (p = 0.036) and between maternal nutritional status during pregnancy and stunting (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Maternal age and nutritional status during pregnancy were significantly associated with stunting among toddlers. Strengthening maternal nutrition during pregnancy and promoting pregnancy planning at an appropriate reproductive age may support stunting prevention.

The relationship between maternal age and nutritional status during pregnancy and stunting among toddlers. (2026). The Journal of Mother and Child Health Concerns, 5(6), 779-785. https://doi.org/10.56922/mchc.v5i6.1
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