ISSN 2756-3332
African Journal of Nursing and Midwifery ISSN 2756-3332 Vol. 10 (3), pp. 001-008, March, 2022. © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Women and men’s perception of birth preparedness and complication readiness: a qualitative study in semi-urban communities in Nigeria
**Margaret Omowaleola AKINWAARE1, Oyeninhun Abimbola OLUWATOSIN2 and Olayinka Adekunmi ADEKOLA3
1,2Department of Nursing, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
3Clinical Nursing Department, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Accepted 26 January, 2022
Abstract
The prevailing trend of maternal mortality has constituted a burden to some countries across the globe, especially in developing countries. It has been empirically established that the majority of these deaths were related to inadequate birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR). This study, therefore, explored women's and men’s perceptions on BPCR. The study adopted a descriptive design using a qualitative approach. A total of 48 community men and women were engaged in focus group discussions (FGDs). The participants were purposively selected through consultation with the community leaders and primary healthcare centres in the selected communities. The perceived components of BPCR include; registration and regular antenatal clinic attendance, balanced diet, sleep and rest and having necessary laboratory investigations done. It was opined that complications could occur to pregnant women as a result of poor nutrition, lack of physical exercise as well as if the woman is involved in some house chores. It was concluded that the identified components of BPCR by the pregnant women, older women, and men in the community were at variance with the standard components by WHO. Hence, there is a need for public awareness of BPCR.
Keywords: Perception, Birth preparedness, Complication readiness, Semi-Urban, Communities Pregnant women, Nigeria.