Birth preparedness and complication readiness among rural pregnant women – a community based cross – sectional study

Abstract

Globally, approximately 810 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Most of the maternal deaths occur during labour, delivery and within 24 hours post – partum. According to a study done by Thaddeus and Maine, the three obstetric delays contributing to maternal mortality are: delay in seeking health care, delay in identifying and reaching the medical facility and delay in receiving adequate and appropriate treatment. Majority of these deaths are preventable through effective, affordable, timely and quality services. Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) is a safe motherhood approach to improve the use and effectiveness of key maternal and newborn health services, based on the fact that preparing for birth and being ready for complications reduces all the phases of delays in receiving these services. The present study was planned with an objective to assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Perceptions and personal experience with current pregnancy regarding BPCR among rural antenatal women in the field practice area of Kinaye, Primary Health Centre, Belagavi.