Affiliation:
1. Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences Wollega University Nekemte Ethiopia
2. Armauer Hansen Research Institute Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases Addis Ababa Ethiopia
3. Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Science Wollega University Nekemte Ethiopia
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundTo treat neural tube closure abnormalities and maternal anemia during pregnancy, iron and folic acid (FA) supplements are typically necessary. Ethiopian Ministry of Health plan to increase the numbers of pregnant women who take iron and FA supplements from 11% to 50%, and by 2029, to 90% by 2024.AimHence, the main objective of this study was to investigate the degree of iron–folic acid supplementation (IFAS) and associated factors among pregnant women receiving antenatal care at Leka Dulecha Woreda public health facilities from May 1 to October 31, 2022.MethodsIn this study, about 316 pregnant women who visited Leka Dulecha prenatal care services were selected. A facility‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to examine parameters associated with the utilization of IFAS.ResultsThese findings suggest that maternal educational status (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 2.00, 95% confidence interval, CI [1.5, 3.05]), the timing of the first prenatal consultation (AOR = 1.93, 95% CI [1.47, 2.62]), having a good understanding of anemia (AOR = 1.50, 95% CI [1.00, 2.11]), and a history of anemia during the current pregnancy (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI [1.11, 3.16]) are important factors to consider when promoting adherence to iron–FA supplementation among pregnant women.ConclusionIt is crucial for healthcare providers to address these factors to improve the overall health outcomes for pregnant women attending Leka Delecha Health Facility.