Comparative study of knowledge, attitude and practices among antenatal care facilities utilizing and non-utilizing women.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the knowledge, attitude and practices among antenatal care facilities utilizing and non-utilizing women, aged 15-49 years.

METHODS

A Cross-sectional survey was conducted between October 2003 and April 2004, including 200 married women in the age range 15-49 years. Knowledge, attitude and practices of women utilizing and not utilizing antenatal care facilities during their previous pregnancy were compared by calculating odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. P values were obtained by doing chi-square test.

RESULTS

Pallor was significantly lower among women utilizing antenatal care (57%) as compared to those who were not (77.6%). (O.R 0.38 95% CI(0.18-0.81) p value 0.02). Tetanus toxoid coverage was higher among women utilizing antenatal care (92%) compared to those who were not (59.2%) (O.R 10.8 95% CI(4.5-26.2). Knowledge about danger signals in pregnancy and realization of the importance of eating a healthy diet during pregnancy was significantly higher among women utilizing antenatal care.

CONCLUSION

Lesser prevalence of Anaemia and better tetanus toxoid coverage was seen among women attending antenatal care facilities. Identification of danger signals in pregnancy and recognition of nutritional demands of pregnancy are better understood by women utilizing antenatal care facilities.