Knowledge of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness among Pregnant Women Seeking Care in a Tertiary Hospital in Ghana

Aims: This study explores the knowledge of pregnant women who are in their third trimester on danger signs associated with pregnancy and childbirth as well as their awareness of the concept of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPACR).

Study Design: Qualitative exploratory design

Place and Duration of Study: Directorate of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana, between April 2018 and May 2018.

Methodology: Participants were pregnant women between the ages of 18 and 49 years who were in their third trimester and had been referred to the hospital’s outpatient clinic for further management. Using data saturation as the benchmark, eleven (11) pregnant women were recruited in the study. Data was collected through individual face-to-face interviews with a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded and subjected to thematic content analysis.

Results: Majority (10/11) of participants had a high level of knowledge about danger signs in pregnancy. Most (8/11) however had no knowledge about the danger signs of labour and the postpartum period. Participants had received education about good nutrition, exercise and personal hygiene but were unaware of all other elements of BPACR, though they had attended at least four antenatal clinics in the current facility.

Conclusion: The level of knowledge about the danger signs of labour and in the postpartum period as well as awareness of the concept of BPACR was very poor. Midwives must ensure these subjects are well discussed during antenatal clinics and steps are taken for all mothers to receive the required information irrespective of lateness to the clinic.