Birth preparedness among antenatal clients

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Public Health
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Birth preparedness and complication readiness are crucial for reducing maternal and neonatal mortality.
• Antenatal care (ANC) provides a vital opportunity to educate women on these aspects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the level of birth preparedness and complication readiness among antenatal care clients.
• To identify factors influencing preparedness.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 394 antenatal care clients at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya.
• Participants were interviewed using a pre-tested questionnaire between May and August 2006.
• Systematic sampling was employed, interviewing every third client over 32 weeks gestation who had attended ANC more than twice.

Main Results:

• Over 60% received some birth preparedness counseling, but knowledge gaps persist.
• While awareness of expected date of delivery (87.3%) and funds for transport (84.3%) were high, only 62.9% had funds for emergencies.
• Knowledge of danger signs in pregnancy was low (67% knew at least one, 6.9% knew three or more), and 109% lacked a clear emergency plan.
• Higher education levels positively influenced birth preparedness.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive birth preparedness education and counseling were not universally provided to ANC clients.
• There is a significant deficit in knowledge regarding danger signs in pregnancy and emergency preparedness.
• Many women lack adequate knowledge and planning for obstetric emergencies, highlighting an urgent need for targeted interventions.