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Birth interval: perceptions and practices among urban-based Saudi Arabian women
1Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia. parveenrasheed1@yahoo.com
Summary
Most mothers prefer longer birth intervals of 3+ years, influenced by education and employment. Awareness of benefits and oral contraception use were noted in this study on maternal health.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Maternal and Child Health
- Sociodemography
Background:
- Understanding maternal perceptions and practices regarding birth spacing is crucial for reproductive health.
- Sociodemographic factors significantly influence family planning decisions and birth intervals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate perceptions of birth spacing among mothers in Al-Khobar.
- To determine actual birth intervals and identify associated sociodemographic factors.
- To assess awareness of the benefits of longer birth intervals.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted with 436 mothers aged 15-50 years in Al-Khobar.
- Participants had two or more children within the last 10 years.
- Data collected on birth spacing preferences, actual intervals, and sociodemographic variables.
Main Results:
- A majority preferred birth intervals of 3 years or longer (66.6%).
- Maternal education and employment status predicted birth spacing preferences.
- Only 26.3% had a birth interval less than 2 years; age and employment predicted longer intervals.
- Half of the mothers were unaware of the physical benefits of longer birth intervals.
Conclusions:
- Maternal education and employment are key determinants of birth spacing preferences and practices.
- There is a significant gap in awareness regarding the health benefits of longer birth intervals.
- Oral contraception is the primary method used for child spacing in this population.
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