Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness among Antenatal Clinic Attendees at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu

Abstract

Background: Maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality remain disproportionately high in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) is a key strategy for promoting safe pregnancies and deliveries, especially in resource-constrained settings. However, the effectiveness of BPCR implementation and its impact on maternal health outcomes in Nigeria require further investigation. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception of birth preparedness and complication readiness among antenatal clinic attendees at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study of 100 pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu was used.. Data was collected using a self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire, which incorporated the JHPIEGO tool for assessing knowledge of danger signs during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Descriptive and inferential statistics was done using SPSS, and results were summarized into percentages and associations. Results: The majority of respondents (94%) could identify at least one danger sign during pregnancy, 97% during delivery, and 90% in the immediate postpartum period. Overall, 66% demonstrated good knowledge of BPCR concepts. Positive attitudes towards birth preparedness were observed in 83% of participants, while 72% reported feeling prepared for complications. Access to transportation for emergencies was high (87%). Parity emerged as a statistically significant factor associated with BPCR knowledge and complication readiness (p=0.003). Conclusion: The findings demonstrate high levels of awareness regarding danger signs across pregnancy stages and generally positive attitudes towards birth preparedness. With two-thirds of participants showing good BPCR knowledge and strong emergency preparedness indicators, the study recommends effective maternal health education in the community. Parity emerged as a key determinant of birth preparedness, indicating the more interactive interventions depending on the number of previous pregnancies.