A Study to Assess the Knowledge and Reported Practices on BPCR (Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness) among Primigravida Mothers Attending Antenatal OPD of Selected Tertiary Care Hospital of Western Maharashtra

Rinu John, Neha Kumari Verma, Sabita Balakrishnan

Abstract: Maternal & Newborn mortality is a significant issue in developing nations. India's MMR is 103 per 100,000 live births. Despite improvements in maternal healthcare access, maternal mortality in India remains a major challenge. Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) is a key antenatal strategy to improve outcomes. A cross-sectional study with 100 third trimester primigravida women from OPD of selected tertiary care hospital was undertaken in 2023 using purposive sampling. The study aims to assess knowledge and reported practices of BPCR among primigravida mothers attending the antenatal OPD of a tertiary care hospital in Western Maharashtra. Data was collected using self-structured questionnaire consisting of socio demographic variables and birth preparedness knowledge and practice tools. Mothers were considered well prepared for birth if they adopted 10 birth preparedness components. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used to analyze the results. While 66% of participants demonstrated adequate BPCR practice, only 36% had adequate knowledge. No significant associations were observed between socio-demographic factors and BPCR knowledge or practices (p?>?0.05). However, 75% of those with adequate knowledge demonstrated good practices, versus 60.9% among those with inadequate knowledge. High knowledge was noted for danger signs like cessation of fetal movement (95%), while knowledge gaps existed for true labor signs and postpartum danger signs. Positive practices included early registration (88%), iron/folic acid supplementation (100%), and regular blood pressure checks (100%), though planning for a skilled birth attendant and having a blood donation plan were lower. The study concludes existence of substantial knowledge?practice gap in BPCR. Focused education during antenatal care may bridge this divide and improve maternal outcomes.

Keywords: Birth preparedness, complication readiness, primigravida, maternal health, antenatal care