Birth Preparedness, Complication Readiness and Knowledge of Maternal Danger Signs among Postnatal Women with Previous Scar Admitted At Muhimbili National Hospital

Abstract

Background: Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) is a strategy to promote the timely use of skilled maternal and neonatal care which helps to reduce delays in obtaining care. Many of the complications that lead to maternal deaths are result of delays in seeking, reaching and receiving appropriate care at health facilities. Among other complications women with previous delivery by caesarean section are at higher risk of uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies. Understanding birth preparedness, complication readiness and knowledge of maternal danger signs in higher risk women will help to reduce delays in seeking care hence improve both maternal and newborn health. Aim: To determine birth preparedness, complication readiness and knowledge of maternal danger signs and its associated factors among post natal women with one previous scar admitted at Muhimbili National Hospital Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam among 400 postnatal women with one previous scar. Information on BPCR, knowledge of maternal danger signs and demographic and obstetric characteristics were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Pearson’s Chi square and Logistic regression analysis were done to determine the association between BPCR and knowledge of maternal danger signs with social demographic and obstetric characteristics of the study population. A p-value. Conclusion: Nearly two-thirds of women studied were well prepared for birth and its complications. Less than a half were knowledgeable of maternal danger signs. Health insurance and level of education had strong association with BPCR and knowledge of maternal danger signs. Empowering women economically, giving them health insurance and improving their education status will help to improve their BPCR status hence improve both maternal and newborn health.