Obstetric Danger Signs Research Articles

Knowledge of obstetric danger signs and associated factors: a study among mothers in Shashamane town, Oromia region, Ethiopia

BackgroundChild birth which is a special moment for parents, families and communities is also a time of intense vulnerability. In many developing countries including Ethiopia, maternal morbidity and mortality still pose a substantial burden. Raising awareness of women about the danger signs of pregnancy and childbirth is the first essential step in appropriate and timely obstetric care.ObjectiveTo assess the knowledge of obstetric danger signs among mothers and associated factors in Shashamane town, oromia region, Ethiopia.MethodsA community based cross sectional study design was employed. All kebeles were included in study; the number of households was determined using proportionate-to-population size then systematic random sampling technique to select 422 women who gave birth in Shashamane town between April and May 2018. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was checked and entered into Epi data version 3.1 then exported to Statistical Package for Social Science version 23 for analysis. Univariate, bivariate and multivariable analysis with 95% CI was carried out. Women who spontaneously mentioned at least two danger signs of pregnancy from eight items were considered to have good knowledge of the obstetric danger signs.ResultA total of 422 mothers were involved in the study. The mean age of the respondent was 25 with a standard deviation of 4.3 year. 59.5% of the respondents were found to have poor knowledge of obstetric danger signs. Majority of respondents mentioned vaginal bleeding (64.7%) as a danger sign of pregnancy. According to the result of the multivariable analysis, antenatal care was significantly associated with the knowledge of obstetric danger sign. Respondents who attended antenatal care were 1.26 times more likely to have good knowledge of obstetric danger signs than those who had no antenatal care [AOR = 1.26, 95%CI (1.08–1.85)]. Respondents who gave birth at health center were 3.57 time more likely to have good knowledge of obstetric danger signs than those who gave birth at home [AOR = 3.57, 95%CI (1.23–10.39)].ConclusionAccording to this study, the knowledge of obstetric danger signs was poor. Some of the factors associated with this knowledge were antenatal care attendance and place of delivery; therefore, it is recommended that mothers should have at least four antenatal visits; this may create good relationship with the providers and enhance their knowledge. In addition to this providing compassionate and respectful maternity care in health facility is also crucial steps to attract more women to health facilities, and to reduce home deliveries.

Intents of Women on Obstetric Danger Signs and its Associated Factors in Farta Woreda, Ethiopia, 2017

Maternal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa remains high. Knowing about obstetric danger signs is the first step to responding immediately in emergency. To understand factors that affect knowledge of women of obstetric danger signs, we conducted a cross-sectional study on 735 women in Farta, Ethiopia. Two hundred and ten (210) (28.6%), 255 (34.7%) and 169 (23%) of respondents affirmed having experienced three or more obstetric danger signs during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, respectively. Urban residency [a danger sign associated with pregnancy (AOR=4.01, 95% CI=1.85-8.69), childbirth (AOR=2.47, 95% CI=1.12-5.43) and the postpartum period (AOR=3.39, 95% CI=1.60-7.18)]; having antenatal care follow-up in their last pregnancy [a danger sign associated with pregnancy (AOR=3.47, 95% CI=1.95-6.18), childbirth (AOR=2.36, 95%CI=1.41-3.96) and the postpartum period (AOR=2.48, 95% CI=1.49-4.13)]; and giving birth at a health institution (AOR=1.43, 95% CI=1.01-2.02) were significant factors. Increasing antenatal-care coverage, educating women and increasing institutional delivery would increase mothers' knowledge about obstetric danger signs.

Knowledge of Obstetric Danger Signs and Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Clinics in Jigjiga Public Health Institution, Somali, Ethiopia

<i>Background</i>: Pregnancy is a normal process that results in a series physiological and psychosocial changes that can be accompanied by some danger signs and complications which are potentially life threatening to the mother and/or foetus. Although, childbirth is positive expectation for most of the women, it can be problematic for others. Knowledge of obstetric danger sign is essential first step in accepting and for motivating women to seek health care service with appropriate and timely referral to comprehensive obstetric and new-born care. <i>Objective</i>: This study was aimed to assess knowledge of obstetric danger signs and associated factors among pregnant women attending ANC clinic in Jigjiga public health institution, Somali, Ethiopia, 2019. <i>Method</i>: Institutional based cross-sectional study design was conducted in Jigjiga Public Health institution from April 15 to 31, 2019. A Systematic random sampling technique was used to select a total of 399 study participants using single population proportion. Data was collected using a pre-tested and well-structured questionnaire. Data was coded, entered and cleaned in Epi-Data version 6.04 and then exported into SPSS statistical software version 20 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to determine sociodemographic, obstetric characteristic, health & health related variables and knowledge of obstetric danger sign while bivariate & multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with knowledge of obstetric danger signs. <i>Result</i>: Out of 399 Respondents, 164 (41.1%) were knowledgeable regarding all type of obstetric danger sign during Pregnancy, Childbirth and Postpartum; The most frequently key obstetric danger signs identified by participants were sever vaginal bleeding during the pregnancy 64.2%, childbirth 57.4% and postpartum 50.4%; Formal education [AOR: 2.297, 95% CI (1.274, 4.143)]; Antenatal care service visit [AOR: 4.226; 95%CI (2.256, 7.918)]; PNC utilization visit [AOR=5.256, 95% CI (2.879, 9.595)]; history of obstetric complication [AOR: 4.273; 95% CI (2.042, 8.944)] and other related factors like Maternal Occupation, home visit, Mass media access and husbands a companion during health facility visit were statistically significance associated with being knowledgeable about obstetric danger signs. <i>Conclusion and Recommendation</i>: A significant proportion of pregnant women were not knowledgeable about obstetric danger signs at all categories which may result lack of delay in seeking health care service. Increasing level of awareness, health education, home to home visit and support women’s health seeking behaviour and encouraging husband to support women’s during health care visit may help women to recognize obstetric danger sign and seek health care services.

KAP on Obstetrics Danger Signs of Pregnancy Among ANC Attending Pregnant Mother in Gununno Health Center, Gununo Town, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia April: 2019

Danger signs of pregnancies are a warning signs that women encounter during pregnancy, child birth and postpartum. It is important, to know this warning signs for women and health care providers to rule out serious complications and initiate treatment immediately. Pregnancy is normal process that results a series of both psychological and physiological changes in pregnant mother. However pregnancy is accompanied with some problems and complications which is life threatening for mother and the fetus. Awareness of obstetric danger sign is first step in accepting appropriate and timely health care service. However there is high maternal death in developing countries due the lack of adequate awareness about danger signs of pregnancy. Yet its factors are not well known in Ethiopia where maternal mortality is high. METHODOLOGY: Descriptive cross sectional study design was conducted for assessment of KAP of obstetric danger sign among pregnant mother at Gununo town, Gununo health center from May10 to June 20, 2019. The pregnant to be interviewed was selected by systematic random sampling ANC registration book at the time of data collection. The total sample size was 420. Structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was entered in to STATA 14 statistical software for analysis. Finally, results were presented in texts, graphs and tables. RESULT: A total of 420 pregnant women were included in the study making the response rate 100%. From those who were included in the study 302 (71.56%) identified severe vaginal bleeding at any time during pregnancy as danger sign. In general 248 (58.77%) of the study participants were found to have good knowledge by scoring above the mean value. overall assessment for attitude shows 203 (48.1%) of the study participants had negative attitude by scoring the mean value and below the mean value and 60% were found to have good practice. Conclusion: Knowledge on danger signs during pregnancy is low and greater than half of respondents have unacceptable attitude. The quality of ANC care particularly health education should be evaluated. Further studies are recommended to address the gaps of knowledge and attitude.

Men\u2019s knowledge and involvement on obstetric danger signs, birth preparedness and complication readiness in Burayu town, Oromia region, Ethiopia

BackgroundMen’s involvement in obstetrics care is an important strategy in reducing preventable maternal morbidity and mortality. This is particularly important in developing countries where men often make decision on financial, health and other family issues. Hence, the objective of this study was to assess men’s knowledge and involvement in obstetric danger signs; birth preparedness and complication readiness in Burayu town administration, Oromia, Ethiopia.MethodsA community based cross-sectional study was conducted in Burayu town administration, Oromia Region from May 2016 to July 2016. Multistage with systematic random sampling techniques were employed. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS version 20. P-value less than 0.05 were taken as a cutoff point to declare significant association.ResultA total of 523 men were involved in the study. The mean and ± SD age of the study participant was 36.6 ± 7 years. Majority of the participants were Orthodox religion followers and, employees of private organization, regarding residency majority were residing in urban setting.Pregnancy related vaginal bleeding was the most familiar danger sign recognized by the study participants which was 342(65.4%).From the total, 441(84.3%) of men were highly involved in preparation of arranging for postpartum cultural food expenses, 345(66.0%) for clean clothes both for the baby and mother; and 71–76% participants were involved in availing transport money for antenatal, delivery and postnatal care. The study revealed that educational status of men, monthly income, knowledge of pregnancy danger sign, delivery and post-delivery care, and knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR) were significantly associated with men’s involvement in BP/CR.ConclusionMajority of participants had knowledge on obstetric danger sign. Men showed low interest to donate blood to their wives during antenatal, delivery and postpartum care. There is a need continued awareness creation on danger sings as well as birth preparedness.

Utilization of skilled birth attendant at birth and associated factors among women who gave birth in the last 24\u2009months preceding the survey in Gura Dhamole Woreda, Bale zone, southeast Ethiopia

BackgroundMaternal morbidity and mortality continued to be major issues in many countries. Globally a total of 10.7 million women have died between 1990 and 2015 due to maternal causes where sub-Saharan Africa alone accounts for 66% of maternal death. Since most maternal deaths are avoidable; skilled attendance during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum is among the most critical interventions for improving maternal and neonatal survival. The study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of utilization of skilled birth attendant at birth among women who gave birth in the last 24 months preceding the study in Gura Dhamole Woreda, Bale Zone Southeast Ethiopia, 2017.MethodsCommunity based cross-sectional study was implemented from March 25 to April 24, 2017 in Gura Dhamole Woreda on total of 402 study subjects who were selected by Multi-stage sampling technique. The data were collected using pre-tested structured questionnaire and data was coded, entered, cleaned and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Service (SPSS) Version 20. Odds ratio with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was used to assess associations the dependent and independent variables. Logistic regression model was employed to identify independent predictors and variables were declared statistically significant at P value < 0.05.ResultIn this study only 29.2% of women were assisted by Skilled Birth Attendance (SBA) during their child birth. Place of residence, mother education, travel time, joint decision on the place of delivery, ANC visit frequency, birth preparedness and complication readiness status, knowledge on obstetric danger signs after delivery and knowledge of presence of maternity waiting homes were significantly associated with SBA utilization.ConclusionSkilled birth attendant utilization in the study area was low. Strategies that improve attendance of antenatal care utilization and attention to birth preparedness and complication readiness and counseling on danger signs are recommended.

Effect of attending pregnant women\u2019s conference on institutional delivery, Northwest Ethiopia: comparative cross-sectional study

BackgroundInstitutional delivery is the cornerstone reducing maternal mortality. Community-based behavioral change interventions are increasing institutional delivery in developing countries. Yet, there is a dearth of information on the effect of attending pregnant women’s conferences in improving institutional delivery in Ethiopian. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the effect of attending pregnant women’s conference on institutional delivery, Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsCommunity-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in 2017 among 871 women who gave birth within the last 12 months (435: pregnant women’s conference attendants and 436: pregnant women’s conference non-attendants). Participants were selected by using a multistage-simple random sampling technique and a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Both descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS V.23. A P-value less than or equal to 0.05 at 95% confidence interval was set to test statistical significance.ResultsInstitutional delivery among women who attended pregnant women’s conferences was 54.3%, higher compared with 39.9% of women who didn’t attend the conference. Likewise, the level of well-preparedness for birth was higher among women who attended the conference (38.9%) compared with their counterparts (25.7%). Being knowledgeable on childbirth (AOR = 1.7, 95%CI: 1.2, 2.8) and postpartum danger signs (AOR = 14.0, 95%CI: 4.6, 40.0), and discussed with partners/families about the place of birth (AOR = 7.7, 95%CI: 3.6, 16.4) were more likely to institutional delivery among women who attended pregnant women’s conference. Whereas, among women who didn’t attend the pregnant women’s conference, being knowledgeable about pregnancy danger signs (AOR = 3.6, 95%CI: 1.6, 8.1) were more likely to institutional delivery. In addition, the nearest health facility within 1 h of walking and well-preparedness for birth and its complication were found positively associated with institutional delivery in both groups.ConclusionInstitutional delivery was low in both groups compared to the national plan, but was higher among women who attended the conference. Similarly, women’s knowledge of obstetric danger signs and preparation for birth and its complication was higher among women who attended the conference. Therefore, encouraging women to attend the pregnant women’s conference and discuss with their families about the place of delivery should be strengthened.

Correlates of Obstetric Risk Perception and Recognition of Danger Signs in Kano, Northern Nigeria.

Background:Risk perception and recognition of danger signs are important cues for accessing obstetric care. These measures are not well documented in many resource-limited settings, including northern Nigeria, a region with poor maternal health indices.Objective:To assess community level obstetric risk perception, danger sign recognition and their predictors in Kano, northern Nigeria.Method:This is a community-based cross-sectional study. Participants were surveyed using structured, pretested questionnaires. Knowledge of obstetric risk factors and danger sign recognition were analyzed, and their predictors modeled using logistic regression to generate adjusted odds ratios (AORs).Results:The obstetric risk factors identified by the 400 respondents included: maternal age (64.3%), history of abortion (37.0%), postpartum haemorrhage (36.0%), previous operative delivery (31.8%), and high parity (31.3%). The most frequently recognised danger signs during pregnancy were: vaginal bleeding (76.8%), seizures (44.5%), and severe abdominal pain (34.8%). Common intrapartum danger signs recognised included: severe bleeding (77.8%), seizures (55.5%), and loss of consciousness (38.3%). Severe bleeding (80.5%), seizures (42.0%), and high fever (28.5%) were the top three danger signs identified in the postpartum period. At multivariate level, respondent sex (female vs. male) (aOR = 3.10, 95% CI = 1.67–5.74), ethnicity (Yoruba vs. Hausa) (aOR = 7.53, 95% CI = 2.51–22.6), occupation (employed vs. unemployed) (aOR = 4.07, 95% CI = 1.87–8.84) and parity (≥5 versus 0) (aOR = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.06–0.92) predicted good obstetric risk perception. Participants’ ethnicity (Yoruba vs. Hausa) (aOR = 4.40, 95% CI = 1.10–19.2) and obstetric risk perception (good vs. poor) (aOR = 12.0, 95% CI = 6.8–21.2) predicted danger sign recognition.Conclusion:The perception of obstetric risk and recognition of danger signs were influenced by participant sex, parity, employment status, and ethnicity. Targeted communication strategies and community-based education are essential to enhance effective utilisation of emergency obstetric services.

Obstetric Danger Signs Experience and Medical Care Sought Among Saudi Women: A Community Based Survey

Objective: To investigate the occurrence of obstetric danger signs and medical care sought during pregnancy, delivery and postpartum periods among Saudi women. Study design: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted on women from five regions of Riyadh who had delivered during the past two years. A structured interview through a predesigned piloted questionnaire was conducted. Socio-demographic characteristics, occurrence of danger signs during the antenatal, delivery and postpartum period were recorded. Results: A sample of 1428 women was interviewed in this study and 1397 were included in the analysis. Around, 35% of the participants had a history of at least one of these three danger signs during pregnancy. Five hundred forty (38.7%) participants had a history of at least one of the obstetric danger signs during delivery. Five hundred four (36.1%) participants had a history of at least one of the obstetric danger signs during postpartum period. The experience of at least one obstetric danger was significantly associated with the northern region of Riyadh, (odds ratio (OR)= 2.03, 95% CI:1.39-2.97); a higher level of education (OR=1.42, 95% CI:1.01-1.98); unemployment OR=0.67, (95% CI: 0.48-0.93) and having hypertension (OR =2.11, 95% CI:1.42-3.13). Around, 36% of the participants sought medical care subsequent to the experience. A statistical significant difference was found between antenatal care visits (more than 10 visits) and the experience of at least one of the obstetric danger signs. Conclusions: This is the first study in Saudi Arabia that reports the proportion or experiences of women with obstetric danger signs. A considerable proportion of women did not seek medical care subsequent to experiencing obstetrical danger signs. Although the coverage of ante and postnatal care is good in KSA, but awareness programs regarding danger signs at grass root levels in antenatal and postnatal care are needed. Funding Statement: The study was funded by King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Declaration of Interests: The authors state that they have no conflict of interests. Ethics Approval Statement: Informed consent was obtained before the enrollment of each participant, the identity of the participant was kept confidential, and the board approval was obtained from the Directorate of PHCCs, Ministry of Health, and ethical approval from King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Assessment of Knowledge of Obstetric Danger Signs During Pregnancy Among Pregnant Mothers in Wolaita Sodo Hospitals and Sodo Town Health Centers in 2017

Background : Pregnancy complications are the major health problems among women in developing countries. Approximately 529,000 women die from pregnancy related causes annually and almost all (99%) of these maternal deaths occur in developing countries. Objective: To assess knowledge of pregnant mothers towards obstetric danger signs durin g pregnancy in Wolaita Sodo town health centers and hospital, April- May, 2017.Methods : Institutional based cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted in April-May,2017, on a sample of 365 mothers who are at least 4 months pregnant for prim gravid and multpara pregnant mothers selected from,11 urban Kebeles of Wolaita sodo town and simple random sampling technique was employed to select the study participants.Results: A total of 365 pregnant mothers were enrolled in the study giving a response rate of 100%. The study participants from selected urban kebeles constituted 100%. (46%) of the study participants were found to have poor knowledge. Respondents who got obstetric danger signs information from health institution had 2 times good knowledge of obstetrics danger signs than those respondents who didn’t get information from the same source. Participants who had formal education have 2.5 times knowledgeable than a participants who had informal education obstetric danger signs.Conclusion : Knowledge of study participants was assessed that 54% of participants have knowledge about obstetric danger signs during pregnancy and only 34% have knowledge about obstetrics danger signs during labor and child birth. Keywords : Danger signs, Pregnancy, Obstetric care. DOI : 10.7176/JHMN/65-01 Publication date : August 31 st 2019

Knowledge of obstetric danger signs among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano, Nigeria

Knowledge of obstetric danger sign promotes active preparation and decision making for delivery by pregnant women and their families. It assists in decision making for seeking health care in case of complications. This study was aimed at determining the knowledge of obstetric danger signs among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Murtala Muhammad specialist hospital Kano. It was a cross sectional survey among 394 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic. Information on knowledge of obstetric danger signs were recorded on a questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 19 Computer Software (IBM SPSS Statistics Inc., IL, Chicago USA). Quantitative variables were summarized using measures of central tendency and measures of variability. Qualitative variables were summarized using frequencies and percentages. A P value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean age ±SD was 26.9±6.21 years. The mean gestational age at booking was 29.7±7.22 weeks. Two hundred and eightysix (77.1%) Pregnant women were aware that unforeseen problems related to pregnancy can occur during any pregnancy that can endanger the life of the woman. These problems include bleeding 176 (61.6%) and convulsion 96 (33.6%). Should any of those problems occur, a woman should preferably visit government hospital 366 (92.9%). Concerning danger signs of pregnancy, the respondents mentioned that a health worker advised them at least once, about danger signs of serious health problems during pregnancy, child birth or soon after 228 (63.3%). The study findings generally revealed that there was awareness of obstetrics danger signs. Vaginal bleeding was the commonest obstetric danger sign known. Knowledge of obstetric danger signs was statistically associated with parity and age group.

Effect of Attending Pregnant Mothers Conference on Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness Practice among Recently Delivered Women in Rural Libo Kemkem District, North West, Ethiopia: A Community-Based Comparative Cross-Sectional Study

Background. Birth preparedness and complication readiness strategies aimed to promote the timely utilization of skilled maternal health care. Pregnant mother conference is viewed as one of the needed interventions to reduce delays, by promoting obstetric danger sign awareness, family support, and decision-making power on a choice of place of delivery and the use of maternal health service. Objective. To compare the effect of attending a pregnant mother conference on birth preparedness and complication readiness practice among recently delivered women. Method. A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from February 15 to March 26, 2017, among mothers who gave birth in the past 12 months. Multistage simple random sampling method was implemented and 896 participants were contacted through a face-to-face interview. Descriptive, binary, and multiple logistic regression analysis was done. Results. Well-preparedness for birth and its complication among women who attended and did not attend the pregnant mother conference were 38.9% and 25.7%, respectively. Among the mothers who did not attend the conference, those who had four or more antenatal care visits (AOR=6.8, 95%CI 1.6, 29.8) and knew two or more danger signs of pregnancy (AOR=4.7, 95%CI:1.4, 15.6) were more likely being well-prepared for birth and its complication readiness, whereas among mothers who attended the conference, those who knew two or more danger signs of pregnancy (AOR=2.1, 95%CI:1.1, 4.3), those who had discussion with partners/families about place of delivery (AOR=11.4, 95%CI:3.1, 42.2), those who had previous delivery at health facility (AOR=2.4, 95%CI:1.2, 4.8), women who lived within one-hour walk to the nearest health facility (AOR=3.6, 95%CI:1.9, 6.9), and age of women within 19-34 years (AOR=6.8, 95%CI:1.7, 26.6) were significantly associated with birth preparedness and its complication readiness. Conclusion. Birth preparedness and complication readiness practice were higher among pregnant mother conference attendant women as compared to nonattendants. The health facility has to ensure encouraging women to participate in pregnant mother conference, promoting the utilization of antenatal care service, and counselling on obstetric danger sign. Moreover, the concerned bodies should promote interventions targeting the predisposing and reinforcing behavioral factors affecting the practice of birth preparedness and its complication readiness.

Factors associated with knowledge of obstetric danger signs and perceptions of the need for obstetric care among married men in northern Nigeria: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundMale involvement in maternal, newborn and child health contributes to better health outcomes for women and their children, especially in restrictive societies. There is evidence that when men have better understanding of women’s health needs, attitudes toward utilization of maternal and child health services, of both women and men, are improved. Given the role of men as the ultimate decision makers in families in northern Nigerian society, this study assessed the determinants of men’s knowledge of danger signs in pregnancy and the continuum of obstetric care, and their perceptions of the importance of antenatal care utilization and health facility delivery.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Structured questionnaires with close ended questions were administered to 1627 married men who had at least one wife younger than 25 years in communities in Nigeria northern states of Kaduna and Katsina. We use crosstabulations and means to compare characteristics of study respondents in the two states, assessing statistical significance of the differences with χ2-square and Anova tests as appropriate, and logistic regressions to assess the determinants of knowledge and perceptions.ResultsKnowledge of obstetric danger signs, especially during the postpartum period, was poor overall, but respondents were relatively more knowledgeable about danger signs during pregnancy and delivery compared with the postpartum period. Most perceived that antenatal care can reduce the risk of complications. Literate men were twice more likely to have positive health-behaviour perceptions. Wealth was positively associated with the perception that women should deliver in a health facility or hospital but did not have a statistically significant effect on the perception that antenatal care can reduce the risk of complications.ConclusionsWhile knowledge of obstetric danger signs was poor, literacy and household wealth significantly influenced knowledge of obstetric danger signs and perceptions that women should deliver at a health facility. Male involvement programmes need to ensure that men are empowered to understand obstetric danger signs along the continuum of obstetric care to improve perception and utilization of maternal health services for better maternal and newborn health outcomes.

Assessment of awareness regarding obstetric and newborn danger signs among pregnant women and recently delivered mothers in urban slums of Raipur city, Chhattisgarh

Background: Knowledge regarding danger signs has been found helpful to reduce delays in seeking, reaching and obtaining care during obstetric emergencies. Aims &amp; Objectives: To assess the awareness regarding obstetric and newborn danger signs among pregnant and recently delivered mothers residing in urban slums of Raipur city. Material &amp; Methods: Observational study was conducted among 160 pregnant and 70 recently delivered women residing in urban slums. The assessment of awareness regarding danger signs was done by adding the marks obtained in various phases. Appropriate statistical tests were applied for any association between knowledge score and socio-demographic variables. Results: Subjects knowing at least one key danger sign during pregnancy, labour, postpartum and newborn period was 54.3%, 51.9%, 7.4%, and 11.3 % respectively. Those with age more than 20 years (p value 0.000), joint family (p value 0.000), educated more than 5 years (p value 0.009), and having married and getting first time pregnant after 20 years (p values 0.001 and 0.022 respectively) were found to have significantly more knowledge about danger signs. Conclusions: Knowledge regarding danger signs should be given at the time of every ANC visit and also at follow up visit after delivery.

Awareness of Danger Signs during Pregnancy and Post-Delivery Period among Women of Reproductive Age in Unguja Island, Zanzibar: A Qualitative Study.

Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania with high levels of maternal mortality due to obstetric complications. Women's awareness on obstetric danger signs and early seeking of medical care is the first intervention in reduction of maternal deaths. This study explored awareness of danger signs among women of reproductive age in Unguja Island, Zanzibar. A community-based qualitative study using focus group discussions among women of reproductive age was conducted to explore awareness of danger signs between March and April 2016. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The study found that women were aware of danger signs during pregnancy but not during the post-delivery period. The mentioned danger signs during pregnancy included vaginal bleeding, fits, swelling of the legs and leaking of vagina fluid. Some women still believed that danger signs during pregnancy and post-delivery period were due to witchcraft leading to consultations with traditional healers and hence delays in seeking skilled medical care. In this context of misconceptions and cultural beliefs there should be investment in health education on danger signs to the community in general with involvement of traditional birth attendants and traditional healers who might play a role in advising and referring women with danger signs to the health facilities for care.

KNOWLEDGE, RISK PERCEPTION AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS TOWARDS OBSTETRIC DANGER SIGNS AMONG MOTHERS IN DEBRE BERHAN TOWN, NORTH SHOA, ETHIOPIA

ABSTRACTBACkGROUND: Child birth is also known as labour and delivery. It is an exciting time in the life of a family. Occasionally a pregnant woman may experience signs and symptoms which pointer danger. Danger signs are those signs that a woman will see, or those symptoms that she will feel which indicate that something is going wrong. METHODS: A community based cross sectional study design was conducted on a sample of 405 mothers from April 1- April 30/2017. Study participant were selected using simple random sampling by allocating proportion to population size for each selected kebeles. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. The data were coded and entered into Epi data version 3.1 and the analysis was carried out in a statistical package for social science versions 22. Descriptive statistics for each variable and binary logistic regression analysis with 95 % CI was carried out. RESULT: A total of 405 respondents were participated with a response rate of 97.3%. Out of which 50.6% have good knowledge about obstetric danger signs. Educational status [AOR=7.26, 95%CI (1.21943.247), number of ANC visits [AOR=2.912, 95%CI (1.27-6.681)] and information on danger signs [AOR=2.366, 95%CI (1.089-5.139)] were found to be significantly associated with knowledge of obstetric danger signs. Twenty-eight-point six percent of respondents had good perception towards obstetric danger signs. Occupation [AOR=3.711, 95%CI (1.256-10.699)], number of ANC visit [AOR=4.575, 95%CI (1.439-14.543)] and information about danger signs [AOR=4.204, 95%CI (1.243-14.223)] were found to be significantly associated with perception towards obstetric danger signs.CONCLUSION: This study showed low level of Knowledge and perception towards obstetric danger signs. Occupation, educational status, number of ANC visits and information on danger signs were significantly associated with knowledge and/or perception. It is recommended that mothers should have at least four antenatal visits and more educational program about obstetric danger signs needs to be implemented to increase knowledge and risk perception. kEY WORDS: Danger signs, Knowledge, Risk perception, Ethiopia (Ethiopian Journal of Reproductive Health; 2019; 11;1:29-41)

Assessment of knowledge of obstetric danger signs among pregnant women attending a teaching hospital.

Introduction:Knowledge of obstetric danger signs among pregnant women is of paramount importance in improving maternal, and fetal health outcomes. This study aims to determine the knowledge of danger signs among pregnant women seeking antenatal care in a teaching hospital.Materials and Methods:A cross-sectional study was carried out for two months among pregnant women who visited the antenatal clinic of a teaching hospital. A pre-tested and pre-designed proforma was used. Mean knowledge scores were computed and knowledge was classified into adequate and inadequate.Results:A total of 170 pregnant women fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included. Mean age of the study participants was found to be 26.40 ± 4.14 years. Nearly 67.10% were aware of bleeding per vagina being a danger sign, 50.0% stated excessive vomiting as a danger sign, 23.50% knew that blurring of vision was a danger, while a mere 20.0% reported that convulsions were a danger sign. Overall, adequate knowledge (total knowledge score of 5 and above) was observed in 54.70% of the participants.Conclusion:Majority of the study participants had adequate knowledge of danger signs in pregnancy. However, when knowledge about specific individual danger signs were further assessed, a high proportion had very poor knowledge. The mean knowledge scores were found to be low.

Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Classes at Primary Health Center in Ibadan, Nigeria

Maternal mortality has been reported to be a challenge globally, with the highest maternal mortality in Africa. However, the first target for the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. To achieve this goal, pregnant women’s knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) is a key. Therefore, this study set out to assess knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness among pregnant women attending antenatal classes. This pilot study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design using quantitative approach. Structured questionnaire was used to generate data from 46 respondents after obtaining ethical approval for the study. All data collected were adequate for data analysis. The mean age is 27.71 years with a standard deviation of 5.85, the average booking time was 4.69 months. Among the respondents who had given birth before, the average number of children was two children (1.8571). After categorizing the knowledge scores, 52.2% of the women have good knowledge of obstetric danger signs, 20 (43.5%) of the women have poor knowledge of BPCR and 32 (69.6%) of the respondents have good knowledge of skilled birth attendants. In conclusion, there is a need to formulate policies and strategies that will help to improve pregnant women’s knowledge of BPCR if the first target of the third SDG will be achieved.

Male involvement in the maternal health care system: implication towards decreasing the high burden of maternal mortality

BackgroundOne of the essential components of antenatal care (ANC) is birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR). Strengthening BP/CR measures is one of the principal strategies to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. The current study aimed at determining the level of men’s knowledge about obstetric danger signs, and their involvement in BP/CR among community of Northwest Ethiopia.MethodA cross-sectional community based survey was conducted in Northwest Ethiopia from May 2016 to July 2016. Data was analyzed by the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software Version 21.0 for Windows. Participants’ socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of obstetric danger signs, and level of involvement in BP/CR were described using frequencies and percentages. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were employed to explore the associated factors and P-value of 0.05 was used as a cut-off point to declare significant association.ResultFrom 856 men who were invited for the study, 824 men agreed for the interview giving a response rate of 96.2%. Half of the men stated one danger sign that may occur during pregnancy 407(49.4%); one third during delivery 271(32.9%); and 213(25.8%) during postpartum period. Among all participants, 256(31.1%) had not made any preparations; 363(44.1%) made one step; 116(14.1%) made two steps; 82(9.9%) made three steps; 5(0.6%) made four steps; 2(0.24%) made five steps; and no one made all the birth preparation steps during the birth of their last child. BP/CR was significantly association with knowledge of at least one danger sign during pregnancy (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 3.1, 3.9); during delivery (AOR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.1, 2.8); and post partum period (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1, 2.4). Furthermore, BP/CR was found to be positively associated with being married, completing college education, escorting wife to antenatal care, and urban residence.ConclusionsMen’s level of knowledge about obstetric danger signs, and their involvement in BP/CR was found to be very poor. Considering the importance of male involvement in the maternal health care, it is recommended to advocate policies and strategies that can improve awareness of men and enhance their engagement in the maternal care.

Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude towards Obstetric Danger Signs During Pregnancy among Pregnant Mothers Attending Antenatal Care in Mizan Aman Public Health Facilities, Bench Maji Zone, South West Ethiopia

Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude towards Obstetric Danger Signs During Pregnancy among Pregnant Mothers Attending Antenatal Care in Mizan Aman Public Health Facilities, Bench Maji Zone, South West Ethiopia