Pregnant Women’s Experience With Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS): Qualitative Research From Three Districts in Indonesia

Abstract

Objectives The provision of multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) to pregnant women is efficacious in improving pregnancy outcomes, safe, cost-effective, and recommended in the context of rigorous research by the World Health Organization. This study examines experiences related to MMS adherence in Indonesia. Methods Qualitative methods were used and included focus group discussions (FGD) with 52 pregnant women who received MMS. Pregnant women were selected through purposive sampling in six health centers across 3 districts within two provinces. Midwives coordinators from each health center were also interviewed as key informants using semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs). High MMS adherence was defined as the number of MMS consumed compared to the number of MMS received. Data was analyzed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Results MMS was distributed in health centers by midwives as a replacement for iron and folic acid (IFA). When interviewed, the average gestational age of women was six months. Most women (78%) reported high adherence to MMS, but adherence varied by district (range: 62% to 91% adherence). The provision of counseling by midwives, perceived benefit after taking MMS, family support, and acceptability of smell, size and shape of MMS were reason women reported for taking MMS on a regular basis. While most (73%) women reported that they experienced no side effects while taking MMS, the most common reason (61%) reported for not consuming MMS was forgetfulness. Conclusions MMS was well accepted by pregnant women as indicated by adequate counseling, high adherence, and perceived health benefit. Funding Sources The Vitamin Angels Alliance, Inc.

Perbandingan Tingkat Kepatuhan Mengkonsumsi Multi Mikronutrien Suplemen (MMS) dan Tablet Tambah Darah (TTD) pada Ibu Hamil di Puskesmas Mulyorejo Surabaya

“…Contrarily, roundshaped tablets are the most difficult to swallow, despite coating efforts to make the swallowing process easier 30 . Based on research conducted by Thaha (2022), mothers consume MMS because of its shape and size, which make it easy for them to swallow 31 . Therefore, it could be concluded that MMS in capsule form had a higher acceptance rate because the capsule membrane may lessen any unpleasant feelings that may appear when consuming the supplement and make it easier to swallow.…”