Background: Pregnancy is considered as the most precious gift for any woman. She should have a safe pregnancy and delivery. Unfortunately, many women are deprived from this right due to poor knowledge or awareness. Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPACR) have proven to be effective strategy to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. This study was done with an objective to assess the knowledge and practices of BPACR among third trimester women attending antenatal clinic.
Methods: The present study was a cross sectional study conducted in antenatal clinic of Howrah District Hospital West between 15^th December 2020 to 20^th January 2021. Study participants were 200 Primigravida mothers who were in third trimester of pregnancy attending the antenatal clinic. Semi- structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic data and obstetrical history; structured knowledge questionnaire and checklist was used to asses’ knowledge and practice on BPACR. Chi-square test or Fischer’s exact test was used as test of significance for qualitative data. Correlations were performed with Pearson Correlation coefficient. coGuide software was used for statistical analysis.
Results: Out of 200 pregnant women, 169(84.5%) have done higher secondary education and 176(88%) were home makers. Majority (62.5%) were residing in urban area. Among participants, 138 (69%) primigravida mothers had inadequate levels of knowledge about BPACR and 140(70%) had inadequate practice.
Conclusion: In this study, the BPACR knowledge and practice of the participants were inadequate. Ideal BPACR given through education can help in healthy practice during antenatal and postnatal period.