Association between Socio-Demographic Characteristics and Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) Practices among Pregnant Women in the Tamale Metropolis: A Cross-Sectional Quantitative Study
Ibrahim Balanjima
Community Health Nurses Training College, P O Box -233, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Iklimah Abubakar Iddrisu
Ministry of Health, Nurses’ and Midwives’ Training College, P.O. Box -565, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Abibatu Fuchu
Ministry of Health, Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Box 392 Wa, Upper West Region, Ghana.
Sophia Bayong-Dumah
Ministry of Health, Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Box 392 Wa, Upper West Region, Ghana.
Ibrahim Issah
Ministry of Health, Nurses’ and Midwives’ Training College, P.O. Box -565, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Zuwera Issaka
Ministry of Health, Nurses’ and Midwives’ Training College, P.O. Box -565, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Martha Nyewie
Community Health Nurses Training College, P O Box -233, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Diana Akubori
Community Health Nurses Training College, P O Box -233, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Angakumpo Dorithy Talata
Ministry of Health, Nurses’ and Midwives’ Training College, P.O. Box -565, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Dorothy Anukem Pwamang
Community Health Nurses Training College, P O Box -233, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Dahamata Kombat
College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, P.O. Box -10, Nalerigu, North-east Region, Ghana.
Faustina Erica Akpablie
Nurse’s Training College, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana.
Agnes Wihinua Mumuni *
Ministry of Health, Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Box 392 Wa, Upper West Region, Ghana.
Faustina Bezagrebere Maayir
Community Health Nurses Training College, P O Box -233, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Bernice Bodua-Mango
Community Health Nurses Training College, P O Box -233, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Abel Asabia
Community Health Nurses Training College, P O Box -233, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Maternal health remains a significant global public health challenge, with high maternal mortality rates particularly prevalent in low- and middle-income countries such as Ghana. This study aims to assess the association between socio-demographic characteristics and birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) practices among pregnant women in the Tamale Metropolis, Northern Region of Ghana.
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 382 pregnant women from three hospitals in the Tamale Metropolis, selected using a multistage sampling method. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, and the chi-square test was used to determine associations, with a p-value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: The study found that 92.1% of respondents were aware of serious health problems during labor and childbirth, with severe vaginal bleeding (97.7%), convulsions (97.2%), and retained placenta (98.0%) being the most commonly recognized issues. Additionally, 83.8% were aware of postpartum health risks, notably severe vaginal bleeding (99.7%) and high fever (97.8%). Additionally, 83.0% are saving for pregnancy and childbirth expenses, and 83.5% have prepared essential items for a clean delivery. Nearly all (94.8%) opted to deliver in a health institution with a skilled provider, and 84.0% have identified transportation plans. Significant associations were found between BPCR and several socio-demographic factors. Age (p=0.048), marital status (p<0.001), religion (p=0.001), educational status (p=0.043), household monthly income (p<0.001), husband’s occupation (p<0.001), and husband’s educational status (p<0.001) all showed significant associations with BPCR.
Conclusion: The study shows significant progress in birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) practices among pregnant women in the Tamale Metropolis, with most demonstrating good practices and awareness of health risks. Socio-demographic factors, such as age, marital status, education, and household income, significantly influence BPCR practices. Health education, financial readiness, and institutional delivery are crucial for maternal health. However, gaps remain in addressing poor practices and overcoming cultural, logistical, and systemic barriers. Recommendations include intensifying educational campaigns, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, introducing financial support mechanisms, and engaging with traditional birth attendants.
Keywords: Maternal health, birth preparedness, complication readiness, pregnant women, maternal mortality