ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES OF PREGNANT WOMEN TOWARD DANGER SIGNS OF PREGNANCY

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of danger signs among pregnant women is the firstessential step in accepting appropriate and timely referral. Also, it is important inimproving maternal and fetal health outcomes. Aim: The present study aimed to assessknowledge and practices of pregnant women toward danger signs of pregnancy. Methods:A descriptive study design was utilized at Obstetrics and Gynecology Department andClinics at Mansoura General Hospital on 242 pregnant women who had been chosen bysystematic random sampling technique. Three tools were used for data collection; astructured interview schedule, danger signs knowledge assessment schedule and dangersigns practices assessment questionnaire. Results: pregnant women total knowledge scoreof danger signs was poor in 57.9% of them while fair in 29.3% and good in less than12.8% of them, during pregnancy the most commonly identified danger signs were vaginalbleeding (69.8%) followed by severe abdominal pain (56.20%) and sever vomiting (55.4%).A significant association was found between women's general characteristics and theirknowledge about pregnancy danger signs (p < 0.001). More than two thirds (65.3%) ofpregnant women had inadequate practices regarding danger signs of pregnancy.Conclusion: The current study questions were answered where poor knowledge levelregarding danger signs of pregnancy was reported among pregnant women. According tothe actual practices taken by pregnant women to overcome their danger signs duringcurrent pregnancy, self-care was the most commonly reported actual practice.Recommendations: The study recommended developing antenatal classes programs for allpregnant women about pregnancy danger signs and about the actual time to seekemergency medical care. In addition, increase the mass media to disseminate correct andrelevant information about danger signs of pregnancy to pregnant women, families andcommunities.