Comparative assessment of birth preparedness and complication readiness among couples in rural and urban communities of Ekiti State, Southwestern Nigeria.

Abstract

To assess and compare the level of Birth Preparedness and Complications Readiness (BPCR) and determine the predicting effect of socio-demographic factors on it among couples in rural and urban communities of Ekiti State. A community-based comparative cross-sectional study. The study was conducted in twelve rural and twelve urban communities in Ekiti State. Couples from rural and urban communities. Female partners were women of reproductive age group (15-49 years) who gave birth within twelve months before the survey. Proportion of couples that were well prepared for birth and obstetric emergencies, and its socio-demographic determinants. The proportion of couples that were well prepared for birth and its complications was significantly higher in urban (60.5%) than rural (48.4%) communities. The study also revealed that living above poverty line (95% CI=1.01-3.79), parity and spousal age difference less than five years (95% CI=1.09 - 2.40) were positive predictors of BPCR among respondents. Urban residents were better prepared than their rural counterparts. Living above poverty line, parity, and spousal age difference less than five years were positive predictors of BPCR. There is a need to emphasize on educating couples on the importance of identifying blood donors as a vital component of BPCR. None declared.