Perceptions on Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness: Perspectives of Pregnant Women

Abstract

Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) involves preparing for childbirth, bearing in mind the possible complications. The concept of BPCR has the potential to improve the awareness and utilization of suitable medical facilities to ensure safe delivery and minimize maternal and neonatal mortality. The purpose of the study was to explore pregnant women’s perspectives on the benefits and barriers of BPCR in the Northern Ghana. The study employed an exploratory descriptive design using a qualitative approach. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 13 participants. Data was collected through individual face-to-face interviews. The data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Out of the 13 participants, the age range for participants was 17 to 37 years; more than half were married, but less than half had no formal education. The participants indicated their understanding of BPCR by explaining the concept of BPCR, dangers signs, and prevention of danger signs. A varied source of information on BPCR was reported including the midwives or clinic, media, and family. The participants indicated that the benefits of BPCR include ensuring adequate preparation, delivery of a healthy child, and arranging for support. The barriers to BPCR were inadequate information, lack of finances, lack of transport, lack of support from the family, and lack of community support. The study findings indicate that the participants were generally informed about the concept of BPCR. However, to enable pregnant women prepare adequately for childbirth, there is a need to involve the husbands in the education on BPCR. The use of mass media to get families and communities educated on the importance of BPCR will enable them to support pregnant women.