Prenatal care perception of Saudi females of childbearing age: an epidemiological study

Authors

  • Saleh F. Alqifari College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
  • Fahad A. Alharbi College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern University, Ada, Ohio, United States
  • Abdulrahman Algeffari College of Medicine, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20191179

Keywords:

Malnourished pregnant females, Prenatal, Vitamins, Women

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study is to assess perception of Saudi women of childbearing age regarding prenatal care.

Methods: Participants were invited to participate in a voluntary online survey. The brief survey consisted of 15 basic multiple choice questions administered in Arabic, and delivered as a secure link through private social media messaging services. The survey permitted only 1 attempt per user. In order to reach and capture non-respondents, 2 follow-up reminders 10 days apart were sent through the same channels of communication. The survey data was collected and analyzed using the survey software platform, Qualtrics by Qualtrics © LLC 2017.

Results: Approximately 9% of participants reported previous pregnancy without use of prenatal care. Nearly 12% of respondents thought that prenatal care is only indicated for malnourished pregnant females, and 7% reported not knowing who prenatal care is specifically indicated for. Nearly 21% reported prenatal care should start after confirmation of pregnancy, 14% thought proper start is anytime within the first 3 months, 8% reported proper start should be after confirmation of healthy pregnancy and 8% reported not sure when to initiate prenatal care. Approximately 12% thought taking prenatal vitamins should be once weekly or some days of the week, while 5% do not advice women to take prenatal vitamins during pregnancy at all.

Conclusions: The majority of Saudi women are well educated on prenatal care. However, women in early and late twenties are less aware of proper usage of prenatal care.

References

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Published

2019-03-26

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Original Research Articles