Knowledge, attitude, and practices towards iron and folic acid supplementation among pregnant women attending Mudakori Health Centre III, Tororo district. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71020/jwhr.v3i6.50Keywords:
Knowledge, attitude, and practices, Iron and folic acid supplementation, Pregnant women attending Mudakori health centre III.Abstract
Background:
The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices towards iron and folic acid supplementation among pregnant women attending Mudakori Health Centre III, Tororo district.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study using a quantitative approach. A simple random sampling technique was used. Data analysis was done manually through tallying, coding, and editing. Raw data was cleaned
and entered in the computer using Microsoft Excel to generate bar graphs, frequency distribution tables, and pie charts for easy presentation.
Results:
(54%) were within the range of 18-24 years, (46%) were housewives, (38%) had 3-4 children, 50(100%) had ever heard about Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation. 48(96%) got information about iron and folic acid from health staff, while none reported obtaining information from the media. (40%) mentioned vegetables as the source of Iron and folic acid, 31(62%) believed that folic acid should be taken throughout, 60% agreed that folic acid cannot be taken without a prescription, 37(74%) were currently taking IFAS, whereas the minority. (58.3%) never took IFAS due to fear of side effects, 35 (70%) respondents started antenatal care at gestational age of 4-6 months. (30%) They were 1km away from the health facility.
Conclusion:
The level of knowledge towards iron and folic acid supplementation was high, evidenced by (100%) having heard about IFAS. The attitudes of respondents towards iron and folic acid supplementation were fairly evidenced by (68%) agreeing that folic acid is important during pregnancy. Their practices were good, as (74%) were currently taking iron and folic acid supplementation.
Recommendations:
Accurate information should be given to women on the appropriate time for starting and the duration recommended for taking iron and folic acid supplementation.
References
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