Factors associated with level of birth preparedness among pregnant mothers at Kerugoya county referral hospital

Abstract

Background: Birth preparedness is the advance preparation made by an expectant mother which ensures access to skilled care. In Africa, the risk of pregnancy related deaths is 300 times more than in the developed world. In Kenya, out of 10 expectant mothers who access antenatal care services only 4 deliver in a health facility.Methods: This was a descriptive cross sectional study conducted at outpatient Maternal Child Health and Family Planning Clinic at Kerugoya County Hospital. The study utilized convenience sampling technique to determine the study population. The research instruments were an In-depth interview guide and semi-structured questionnaires. Data was managed using SPSS and analysis done using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.Results: A sample of 202 women participated in the study. 47.5% of the participants were adequately prepared for birth. Having a higher level of education was significantly associated with birth preparedness (p=0.021). The number of children per woman had a significant influence on level of birth preparedness with women who had no children less likely to be prepared for birth compared to those with one or more children (p=0.002). Clients who attended Antenatal Care (ANC) at least 3 times were prepared for birth compared to those who visited either once or twice (p=0.027).Conclusions: Overall, women of reproductive age lack birth preparedness. There is therefore need to enhance birth preparedness awareness campaigns at ANC visits targeting women in their third trimester.

Utilization of individual birth plan during pregnancy and its determinants in Makueni County, Kenya

“…This is contrary to a study done in Kirinyaga Kenya which found no association. 7 This could be attributed to the fact that a husband could be of support to the woman during pregnancy and therefore offer support in getting ready for the birth of the baby.…”

“…Similar to other studies, we found that higher level of education is associated with birth preparedness and complication readiness. 6,7,[10][11][12][13][14] We attribute this to the fact that a woman who is educated is likely to understand more the health messages and apply the knowledge accordingly compared to an illiterate woman. 7,10,14 Contrary to studies in Kenya and Uganda, middle age rather than young age was associated with utilization of IBP.…”

“…However, many studies in Africa have found nearly more than half of pregnant women do not prepare for birth an indication of unmet antenatal care needs. [3][4][5][6][7] Although there is little proof to demonstrate the direct association between having an IBP and reduction in morbidity or mortality for mothers and babies, some studies have revealed evidence that there is considerable benefit for birth preparedness. 6,8,9 Women who are well prepared and have knowledge on danger signs in pregnancy, are more likely to: identify a skilled birth attendant, be financially ready to meet emergency costs and transportation and be ready with a potential blood donor thus improving chances of a positive birth outcome.…”

“…4,6,8,9 A number of socio-demographic factors have been found to be associated with birth-preparedness such as level of education; however, little is known on how socioecologic factors such as attitudes and perceptions of clients determine utilization of IBP in a rural area. 7,9 There is some evidence clients perceive birth preparedness negatively. 7 Makueni County loses about 6,000 women every year according to the ministry of health records and there are no studies which have established the level of birth preparedness in this county.…”

“…7,9 There is some evidence clients perceive birth preparedness negatively. 7 Makueni County loses about 6,000 women every year according to the ministry of health records and there are no studies which have established the level of birth preparedness in this county. This study is aimed at first, to establish the level of utilization of IBP during pregnancy and its determinants; secondly, to find out nurses' opinions on IBP utilization.…”