Awareness, knowledge and uptake of preconception care among women in Ife Central Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The well-being of women and children is one of the major determinants of the health of any nation and can help predict future public health challenges for families, communities, and the health care system. One of the ways to achieve this is the embracement of preconception care to increase the chances of healthy outcomes of pregnancy for both mother and child.

Objectives: This study aimed at addressing the following objectives: to determine the level of awareness and knowledge of preconception care, to describe the practice of preconception care among women and to identify factors responsible for not seeking preconception care.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was utilized, using a quantitative method of data collection which involved the use of a structured questionnaire. The Sample for the study were women recruited from 11 primary health care facilities in Ife central local government area.They were 375 women met in the clinics during the period of data collection who gave their consent. Descriptive statistics as well as Chi-square analysis was done to show statistical sigificance association at P<0.05.

Results: The findings from the study showed that the mean age of respondents was 31.1±7.36 with the age range of 19-49. Most (63.5%; n=238) of the respondents were aware of preconception care and the main source of awareness was the antenatal clinic. However, two leading components of preconception care that respondents have utilized in the past were folic acid supplementation and taking healthy nutrients. Even though most of the respondents were knowledgeable about preconception care, the result showed that majority (65.9%, n=247) of the respondents have not sought the care before pregnancy while only 34.1% (n=128) have asked about it in the hospital. A significant association was found between respondents educational level and knowledge of preconception care (X²=24.76, df=3, p=0.001. Lack of awareness and knowledge of benefits of preconception care were major factors identified.

Conclusion: The need for massive awareness and education on preconception care is highly important for people to utilize it more effectively.