Knowledge and Determinants of Obstetric Danger Signs Among Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The maternal mortality rate reflects the risk of maternal death during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period per 100,000 live births. A woman's knowledge of obstetric danger signs plays a critical role in her ability to recognize complications early and seek timely medical intervention. This study aimed to identify the factors influencing pregnant women's knowledge of obstetric danger signs.

Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted in Indonesia between May and August 2022 using an online survey. Participants were pregnant women who owned smartphones and provided informed consent. A total of 176 respondents were included. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic characteristics (age, education, occupation, distance to health facilities), obstetric history (parity, gestational age, antenatal visits), sources of information, and knowledge of obstetric danger signs, measured using the Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) tool. Multivariate analysis was conducted using linear regression with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

Results: The majority of participants (57.9%) demonstrated good knowledge of obstetric danger signs, while 41.7% had poor knowledge. Age, occupation, gestational age, and antenatal visits were not significantly associated with knowledge levels. However, educational attainment, parity, proximity to health facilities, and access to information sources were significantly related to knowledge of obstetric danger signs (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: A substantial proportion of pregnant women still lack adequate knowledge of obstetric danger signs. Therefore, it is crucial for nurses and other healthcare providers to intensify educational efforts and promote regular antenatal care to improve maternal awareness and reduce maternal morbidity and mortality.