Background: Knowledge of danger signs among pregnant women is the first essential step in accepting appropriate and timely referral. Also, it is important in improving maternal and fetal health outcomes. Aim: The present study aimed to assess knowledge and practices of pregnant women toward danger signs of pregnancy. Methods: A descriptive study design was utilized at Obstetrics and Gynecology Department and Clinics at Mansoura General Hospital on 242 pregnant women who had been chosen by systematic random sampling technique. Three tools were used for data collection; a structured interview schedule, danger signs knowledge assessment schedule and danger signs practices assessment questionnaire. Results: pregnant women total knowledge score of danger signs was poor in 57.9% of them while fair in 29.3% and good in less than 12.8% of them, during pregnancy the most commonly identified danger signs were vaginal bleeding (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 their knowledge about pregnancy danger signs (p < 0.001). More than two thirds (65.3%) of pregnant women had inadequate practices regarding danger signs of pregnancy.
Conclusion:The current study questions were answered where poor knowledge level regarding danger signs of pregnancy was reported among pregnant women. According to the actual practices taken by pregnant women to overcome their danger signs during current pregnancy, self-care was the most commonly reported actual practice. Recommendations: The study recommended developing antenatal classes programs for all pregnant women about pregnancy danger signs and about the actual time to seek emergency medical care. In addition, increase the mass media to disseminate correct and relevant information about danger signs of pregnancy to pregnant women, families and communities.
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