CONTEXTUAL FACTORS, VACCINATION DETERMINANTS, AND ADHERENCE TO COVID-19 INOCULATION AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN

Abstract

Background: Maternal inoculation is the most effective way to combat COVID-19, reducing morbidity in pregnant women and newborns. This study focused on investigating the factors influencing COVID-19 inoculation adherence among pregnant women in a government hospital in Paranaque City, Philippines. Research Method: Conducted through a descriptive-correlational research design involving 245 randomly selected pregnant women, the study employed three researcher-made questionnaires to gather data on contextual factors, vaccination determinants, and adherence to COVID-19 inoculation. Results: The findings revealed that most of the respondents were between 20 and 30 years old, Roman Catholic, Tagalog-speaking, unemployed, with a secondary education, expecting their first child, and without any existing medical illnesses. The study reported a very high level of adherence to COVID-19 vaccination among the pregnant women. There was a significant difference in the respondent’s adherence to COVID-19 inoculation and medical illness. The study identified a significant relationship between social factors and adherence to COVID-19 inoculation as to self-efficacy, confidence, convenience, and complacency in pregnant women. Furthermore, the study determined that only medical illnesses and social factors predicted adherence to vaccination. Conclusion: The study highlighted the crucial role of community and healthcare support in promoting vaccination acceptance among pregnant women, emphasizing effective communication about vaccine safety and efficacy. Additionally, it underscored the need for targeted interventions addressing health concerns and hesitancy to bolster vaccination rates. Future research is recommended to corroborate strategies to encourage widespread vaccine uptake and ensure maternal and neonatal well-being providing valuable insights for healthcare workers and policymakers.