Pregnancy Preparedness and Complication Preparedness of Pregnant Women in Prenatal Clinics of Tertiary Hospitals

Abstract

This study assesses the level of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPACR) among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at a tertiary care center. Conducted through an analytical cross - sectional approach from August to October 2023 at Rajarajeswari Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, it involved 194 participants who were 32 weeks gestation or more. The research utilized a questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of birth preparedness, and complication readiness, with data analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results indicated a low BPACR index with significant gaps in awareness and preparedness for childbirth and emergency situations. Only a fraction of participants had initiated antenatal care in the first trimester, and a majority were unaware of severe preeclampsia signs. The study underscores the need for enhanced education and awareness programs at both community and health center levels to improve birth preparedness and complication readiness among pregnant women.