Community perceptions of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia in Ogun State, Nigeria: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia pose significant maternal morbidity and mortality risks, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Existing research often overlooks socio-cultural factors influencing community understanding of these pregnancy complications.
• This study explores community perceptions of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia in Ogun State, Nigeria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate community perceptions and knowledge regarding pre-eclampsia and eclampsia in Ogun State, Nigeria.
• To understand the socio-cultural context influencing the understanding and management of these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Conducted in Ogun State, Nigeria (2011-2012).
• Utilized 28 focus group discussions with pregnant women, new mothers, male decision-makers, community leaders, and traditional birth attendants.
• Included interviews with heads of traditional birth attendants and community leaders; data analyzed using NVivo 10.

Main Results:

• No specific Yoruba term for pre-eclampsia; multiple terms exist for hypertension.
• Pregnancy hypertension perceived as stress-related (marital conflict, financial worries); seizures linked to prolonged cold exposure.
• Traditional treatments for seizures included herbs, concoctions, incisions, and black soap application; no traditional treatment for hypertension noted.

Conclusions:

• Limited knowledge of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia exists within the studied communities.
• Cultural perceptions attribute pre-eclampsia to stress and eclampsia to cold, influencing treatment choices (heat-related remedies).
• Addressing these culturally-anchored perceptions through focused public health awareness and a holistic community approach is crucial.