A Study on Knowledge of COVID-19 and Practice of Preventive Measures Among Healthy Pregnant Women Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern India

Abstract

Introduction: COVID -19 infection may be a health threat for both mother and the growing child in utero. Appropriate and authentic perception of information on COVID-19 is essential during pregnancy to avoid infection and stay safe and healthy in the changing global situation.Aim: The aim of the study was to understand the extent of knowledge and safe preventive practice followed against COVID -19 among non-infected pregnant women.Materials and Method:A cross sectional,observational, pre coded, pre validated questionnaire-based study was conducted on pregnant women in a tertiary care hospital attending OPD/IPD. Responses to questions were assessed by using a 5-point Likert scale and interpreted by percentage and chi square test. Result:All the mother were aware about the transmission and majority (72%)knew the clinical presentation of COVID-19. There was no significant correlation between age of participants and knowledge of COVID-19(p =0.538) but a strong correlation with educational level and correct knowledge was found (p<0.0001).Knowledge on some important aspects like breast feeding of baby, antenatal check-up or effect of lockdown/curfew on spread of infection during covid pandemic was lacking among the study participants.

Conclusion: Most of the pregnant women responded correctly and had fair amount of knowledge on COVID-19 and practicing good preventive measures during their pregnancy. However, good educational programme to sensitize and proper health supervision from the healthcare authority might keep this special population safe and help in bridging the gap in their knowledge.

Keywords: Knowledge, practice, covid-19, pregnancy, questionnaire, Likert scale