Adherence to Iron-folic Acid Supplementation and Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women in Borena Woreda, South Wollo, Ethiopia

Abstract

<i>Background</i>: Iron deficiency is the leading and single nutrient deficiency in the world affecting over 30% of the world’s population particularly in developing countries. Pregnant women are at high risk of iron deficiency due to increased nutrient requirements during pregnancy. In Ethiopia, only 0.4% of pregnant women take Iron supplements more than 90 days of the recommended 180 days. The factors for this low adherence are not clearly known. <i>Objective</i>: To assess the level of adherence and factors associated with iron-folic acid supplementation among pregnant women attending antenatal service of selected health facilities in Borena South Wollo, Amhara region, Ethiopia. <i>Methodology</i>: Institution-based cross-sectional study design was used to conduct the study. About 340 pregnant women attended health centers in Borena, South Wollo, Amhara region, Ethiopia was included in the study by using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were entered into Epi info version-7 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Logistic regression was employed to identify the predictor variables. Statistical significance was considered at P<0.05 with an adjusted odds ratio calculated at 95% CI. <i>Result</i>: The overall adherence to iron folate supplement was 45.6%. Husbands educational level [AOR=1.95; 95% CI: 1.07-3.57], history of abortion [AOR=0.162; 95% CI: 0.050-0.53], having diseases diagnosed other than anemia [AOR=0.476; 95% CI: 0.284-0.798], taking of IFA in months [AOR=2.81; 95% CI: 1.365-5.786] and encouragement to take IFA [AOR=0.125; 95% CI: 0.037-0.418] were significantly associated with adherence to iron folate acid supplementation. <i>Conclusion</i>: Adherence to IFA supplement utilization was low in the study area. Provision of health education to pregnant mothers and the community on anemia and the importance of IFA during pregnancy through adequate counseling, community education, and media would increase adherence.