Perception And Behavior of Pregnant Women Regarding Antenatal Care in People of Kohistan.

Abstract

Background: Maternal health remains a critical concern in rural areas where healthcare access and education are often limited.

Objectives: This study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antenatal care (ANC) among women in Kohistan, a rural district in Pakistan, and explores how demographic factors influence these aspects of healthcare.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 201 pregnant women from Kohistan. Presenting to THQ hospital pattan and BHU Jijal during 1^st August 2024 till  30^th November 2024 time period.  Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that assessed participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to ANC, along with demographic variables such as age, education, income, and residence. Descriptive statistics were used to categorize participants into groups based on their ANC-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices.

Results: Most participants (72.64%) were aged 20-30 years, with the majority (99%) living in rural areas. A large percentage (81.59%) were in the second trimester of pregnancy. All participants were illiterate, and nearly all (95.98%) had inadequate attitudes and poor practices regarding ANC. Knowledge was also poor across the entire sample. Socioeconomic factors such as income and education were closely linked to poor knowledge and practices. Additionally, 42.71% of participants reported post-operative infections.

Conclusions: The study highlights widespread poor knowledge, inadequate attitudes, and poor practices regarding Ante Natal Care in Kohistan. Factors like illiteracy, and low income contribute to these challenges.

Keywords: Antenatal care, maternal health, rural Pakistan, knowledge, attitudes, practices, healthcare access, Kohistan.