Knowledge And Practices Of Pregnant Women Regarding Iron And Folic Acid Supplementation At Singur, West Bengal

ABSTRACT

Background: Iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy as it is associated with increased maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Objective: To study the knowledge and practices of pregnant women regarding IFA supplementation during pregnancy. Methodology:A cross–sectional study was conducted for 2 months (May –July 2017) among 108 pregnant women in their third trimester attending the antenatal at Singur. Knowledge and practice assessed using structured schedule. Logistic regression was done to establish association. Results: Poor knowledge significantly associated with lower age(AOR= 0.80,CI=0.67–0.95), lower educational status( AOR= 3.75, CI= 1.5–9.34),lower per capita income ( AOR= 3.09, CI= 1.24–7.72). Poor practice associated lower educational status(AOR=3.30, CI=1.45–7.53) and improper guidance from health–care worker(AOR=3.15, CI=1.29–7.72) Conclusions: The present study indicated poor knowledge and practice regarding IFA supplementation. So intensive counselling, motivation and implementing this into practice would help in reducing the incidence of anemia during pregnancy.