An Evaluation of the Factors Affecting Antenatal Clinic Pregnant Women's Complication Readiness and Birth Preparedness

Abstract

Maternal mortality remains a significant global health challenge, with Nigeria contributing over 10% of worldwide deaths. Preventable causes, delays in care, and poor preparedness are key factors. Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) is a crucial strategy to reduce risks. This study evaluated knowledge, practices, and barriers to BPCR among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at Specialist Hospital, Rajasthan. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted with 80 randomly selected ANC attendees, determined using Taro Yamane’s formula. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire on sociodemographic factors, BPCR knowledge, awareness of danger signs, and social support. Reliability was confirmed with a test–retest coefficient of r = 0.80. Descriptive statistics were used. The results show that 87.5% of respondents were aware of BPCR, but only 37.5% demonstrated adequate complication readiness. Most women knew their expected delivery date (93.8%) and arranged transportation (87.5%), but few identified a delivery facility (23.8%) or arranged a blood donor (6.3%). Financial preparedness was poor, with 62.5% lacking savings for delivery or emergencies. Although 87.5% recognized at least one obstetric danger sign, knowledge of specific signs such as reduced fetal movement (25%) and severe vomiting (21.3%) was limited. Socioeconomic hardship and cultural practices were the main barriers. The study concludes that while awareness of BPCR was high, actual practice, especially regarding complications, remained inadequate. The health implications for BPCR emphasize the need for strengthening maternal education, expanding subsidized healthcare, and empowering women economically to reduce preventable maternal deaths in resource-limited settings.