Exploring Awareness, Perceptions, and Barriers to Seeking Care for Prenatal Complications among Pregnant Women in a Tertiary Hospital in Ghana

Abstract

Abstract Background: Maternal mortality due to prenatal complications remains a concern in middle-income countries. In Ghana, efforts to reduce maternal deaths have not yielded significant results. This study aimed to assess pregnant women's awareness of complications, identify influencing factors, explore barriers to care, and propose interventions. By addressing these issues, the study aims to improve understanding, promote timely intervention, and ultimately reduce maternal mortality rates in Ghana through targeted interventions and comprehensive health education programs. Methodology: A qualitative research design, specifically an interpretive descriptive approach, was employed to gain an in-depth understanding of pregnant women’s awareness of danger signs and the challenges they face in accessing care. This research framework of interpretivism allows researchers to understand a phenomenon by considering the multiple interpretations of participants in a similar context. The target population comprised pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at a tertiary hospital in Ghana. Purposive sampling was used to select participants who met the study’s objectives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were collected until saturation was reached. Results: Ten participants aged between 24 and 37 were interviewed. There were ten main themes that emerged from the interviews: perceptions of causes, varying awareness of complications, categories of complications, effects of complication on mothers and babies, response to complications, referrals, care-seeking behavior, treatment variations, support and barriers to seeking care. These findings provide valuable insights into participants' experiences and knowledge regarding prenatal complications and care-seeking. Conclusion: The study concluded that pregnant women interviewed had limited knowledge and awareness of danger signs and complications. Higher education, attending antenatal care, and exposure to health education programs improved knowledge. Targeted interventions, comprehensive health education, and regular antenatal care are vital for enhancing awareness. Culturally sensitive care, support, and information should be provided to improve maternal and fetal outcomes. Addressing geographical barriers, financial constraints, and inadequate knowledge is necessary to ensure timely and appropriate prenatal care access