Antenatal care awareness in reproductive-age women in suburban Lahore.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Knowledge of antenatal care in women of reproductive age residing in sub-urban areas of lahore
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Musa Raza, M Farooq Amjad, Samiyah Tasleem, Alweena Awan, Maarij Shehzad and Ayesha Humayun
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Knowledge of antenatal care in women of reproductive age residing in sub-urban areas of lahore
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20187-11747
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by Raza et al. evaluated the knowledge of antenatal care (ANC) among women of reproductive age living in sub-urban areas of Lahore, Pakistan. The background highlights that maternal and child health is a significant concern both nationally and globally, stressing the importance of effective ANC practices to ensure healthy outcomes for both mothers and infants. The objective was to gauge the awareness of ANC practices among these women, particularly focusing on their understanding of when to seek care, the necessary visits, and potential warning signs during pregnancy.
Importance of Antenatal Care
Antenatal care is crucial for monitoring the health of pregnant women and addressing any complications that may arise during pregnancy. The research found that a vast majority (99.1%) of the participants recognized the necessity of ANC visits, with a substantial number aware of the benefits like vaccinations and the need for additional nutrition during pregnancy. Despite this awareness, there was a noticeable gap in knowledge regarding the timing of initial doctor visits and the minimum number of ANC visits, highlighting the need for more robust education on these aspects.
Knowledge Gaps on Warning Signs and Fetal Anomalies
Despite the overall awareness of ANC visits, the findings revealed a concerning lack of knowledge about warning signs during pregnancy and potential fetal developmental anomalies. Only 1% of the women could identify three or more warning signs, with many responding that they did not know relevant information. This gap underscores the need for education about specific health risks and complications that can arise during pregnancy, which is essential for timely intervention and improved maternal health outcomes.
Socio-Demographic Factors Influencing Knowledge
The study also examined the socio-demographic profile of the participants, noting that education level significantly influenced knowledge about various ANC components. Women with no formal education demonstrated higher rates of incorrect answers and a lack of responses regarding personal hygiene and ANC practices. Moreover, factors such as income and previous experiences of childbirth impacted awareness, emphasizing the importance of targeted educational interventions that take into account socio-economic and educational backgrounds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the majority of women in the study showed basic awareness of the importance of antenatal care, significant gaps exist in detailed knowledge about practices, warning signs, and potential fetal anomalies. The findings suggest that, despite a generally positive attitude towards ANC, the local government and health organizations must implement improved educational programs to disseminate comprehensive and detailed information on antenatal care. Such initiatives will empower women with the knowledge needed to navigate their pregnancies effectively and understand the importance of regular medical consultations.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is antenatal care (ANC) and why is it important?
Antenatal care refers to the health care provided to a woman during pregnancy. It aims to ensure the health of both the mother and child by detecting and addressing potential health issues early on.
What is the desired number of ANC visits during pregnancy?
The recommended minimum number of ANC visits during a pregnancy is generally at least four. However, it can vary based on individual health needs and risk factors.
When should a pregnant woman make her first ANC visit?
A pregnant woman should ideally make her first ANC visit as soon as she confirms her pregnancy, typically around the end of the first trimester.
What vaccinations should pregnant women receive during ANC?
Pregnant women should receive vaccinations, primarily tetanus toxoid. This is essential to protect both the mother and the baby from preventable diseases.
How can smoking affect pregnancy and the fetus?
Smoking during pregnancy is harmful as it can lead to complications, low birth weight, and developmental issues for the fetus. It is essential for pregnant women to avoid smoking.
What warning signs should women be aware of during pregnancy?
Pregnant women should be mindful of warning signs like severe pain, high blood pressure, or unusual vaginal discharge, which could indicate complications needing immediate medical attention.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antenatal care awareness in reproductive-age women in suburban Lahore.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the understanding and awareness that women in the study possess regarding antenatal care (ANC). It encompasses information about the necessity of ANC visits, nutritional needs, and warning signs during pregnancy. Increased knowledge is important for improving maternal and child health outcomes, as it empowers women to make informed health decisions.
2) Study (Studying):
The study is a descriptive cross-sectional research aimed at assessing the awareness of antenatal care practices among women of reproductive age in a sub-urban area of Lahore. It provides insights into their knowledge, perceptions, and behaviors related to health care during pregnancy, thereby identifying gaps that need to be addressed.
3) Pregnant:
Pregnant refers to the state of a woman who is carrying a developing fetus. The study focuses on the health and care requirements of pregnant women, specifically the importance of antenatal care visits which are critical for monitoring both maternal and fetal well-being throughout the pregnancy.
4) Sign:
Sign refers to the warning signs during pregnancy that indicate potential health risks. Awareness of these signs is vital for timely medical intervention. The study highlights how many women lack knowledge about warning signs, which could lead to adverse health outcomes for both mother and child.
5) Visit:
Visits denote the multiple antenatal care appointments a pregnant woman should attend during her pregnancy. They are critical for monitoring health progress, diagnosing potential issues, and providing necessary vaccinations and counseling, reinforcing the need for women to recognize the importance of these scheduled healthcare visits.
6) House:
Houses refer to the physical dwellings of the respondents in the study. The type and conditions of houses, as well as the living arrangements within them, can influence access to healthcare, availability of resources, and overall health awareness among women regarding antenatal care practices.
7) Family:
Family signifies the support system surrounding pregnant women, including partners, children, and extended family members. The health and education of family members play a crucial role in influencing a woman's knowledge and attitudes towards antenatal care. Family participation in healthcare decision-making can improve health outcomes.
8) Table:
Table refers to the organized presentation of data and statistics in the study, used to clearly convey the socio-demographic profiles and knowledge levels of the participants. Tables enhance understanding by providing visual summaries of complex information, making it easier to identify trends and gaps in the participants' knowledge.
9) Birth:
Birth marks the culmination of pregnancy when a baby is delivered. The study emphasizes the importance of antenatal care practices to ensure healthy birth outcomes. Knowledge of birthing processes, complications, and the right care could mitigate risks associated with childbirth and improve maternal and infant health.
10) Food:
Food encompasses the dietary considerations and nutritional needs of pregnant women. The study finds that many respondents recognize the need for increased food intake during pregnancy, emphasizing the connection between maternal nutrition and fetal development. Proper nutritional knowledge is essential for promoting healthy pregnancy outcomes.
11) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analysis provided in the study regarding the findings and their implications. It interprets data in relation to existing literature, drawing conclusions about the knowledge gaps identified among participants about antenatal care, warning signs, and nutrition, ultimately suggesting improvements for maternal health education.
12) Medicine:
Medicines are substances used to treat or prevent illnesses, including those required during pregnancy. Knowledge of which medications are safe or harmful is crucial for pregnant women to avoid risks associated with pharmaceutical use, thereby enhancing maternal and fetal health safety.
13) Lahore:
Lahore is the city in Pakistan where the study was conducted, providing context to the cultural, demographic, and socioeconomic factors that may affect women’s knowledge and behaviors regarding antenatal care. Understanding local context is crucial for tailoring effective health education programs.
14) Musha (Musa, Musá):
Musa is the name of the corresponding author of the study, representing the academic and professional effort behind the research on antenatal care knowledge. Highlighting specific researchers underscores the credibility and scholarly impact of the findings presented in the article.
15) Pain:
Pain signifies one of the warning signs during pregnancy that women should be aware of. Understanding the nature and severity of pain can help women distinguish between normal discomforts and potential complications, thereby prompting timely medical consultation to safeguard their health and that of the fetus.
16) Education:
Education involves the formal and informal learning processes that contribute to the knowledge base of women regarding antenatal care. The study finds a correlation between educational attainment and health knowledge, emphasizing the need for comprehensive education programs to improve maternal health awareness.
17) Language:
Language is the means of communication used in the questionnaire administered in the study. The language of the questions plays a significant role in ensuring that participants understand the material and can correctly respond, which is key to accurately assessing their knowledge of antenatal care.
18) Marriage:
Marriage represents the legal and social union often preceding pregnancy, which may influence women's access to healthcare, education, and support systems. The context of marriage can shape expectations and practices regarding women's health and can be a factor in their knowledge of antenatal care.
19) Disease:
Disease represents a broader concept than diseases. It encompasses various health issues that can affect pregnant women. Understanding disease implications is crucial for women to seek necessary healthcare and educate themselves about preventive measures and treatments available during pregnancy.
20) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene involves practices that maintain health and prevent disease, particularly during pregnancy. The study highlights the importance of good hygiene practices for pregnant women, as understanding personal hygiene can lead to better health outcomes for both mothers and their newborns.
21) Filling (Filled):
Filled indicates the action of completing the questionnaire used in the study. Accurate filling of the questionnaire is essential for collecting reliable data on knowledge and perceptions towards antenatal care, ultimately enabling a better understanding of health education needs among women in the surveyed area.
22) India:
India is referenced in the study as a comparative context for analyzing maternal health, particularly in relation to knowledge levels and practices surrounding antenatal care. Studies from India provide insight into regional variations and support the importance of tailored health interventions in different cultural settings.
23) Death:
Death here relates to maternal mortality outcomes that can occur without proper antenatal care and medical intervention. The study emphasizes the importance of knowledge about ANC practices to reduce risks associated with pregnancy, highlighting the need to educate women to prevent maternal deaths.
24) Blood:
Blood signifies a key aspect of maternal health monitoring during pregnancy. Knowledge about blood tests required in ANC is essential for diagnosing potential complications such as anemia or infections, thus reinforcing the importance of awareness and follow-up in ensure maternal and fetal health.
25) Diet:
Diet pertains to the nutritional intake required during pregnancy for the health of the mother and the developing fetus. Proper knowledge of dietary needs reinforces the study's findings regarding the necessity of sufficient nutrition, which is crucial for preventing complications and supporting healthy fetal growth.
26) Hand:
Hand is a symbol of action and care, relating to the physical involvement of healthcare providers or family members in supporting pregnant women. The act of helping with healthcare practices underscores the importance of community involvement in enhancing women's knowledge of antenatal care.
27) Life:
Life here refers to the mother and child, highlighting the fundamental goal of antenatal care practices, which is to ensure healthy outcomes for both. The study emphasizes the impact of maternal health on the quality of life of families, underscoring the importance of education and support.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Antenatal care awareness in reproductive-age women in suburban Lahore.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Educational status, Reproductive age, Health education, Community health, Preventive Health Care, Health of the mother and child, Socio Demographic Profile, Face-to-Face Interview, Obstetric outcome, Health Care Service, Maternal mortality ratio (MMR), Household income, Self-constructed questionnaire.