Factors affecting birth preparedness among post-natal mothers in a medical college hospital of Kolkata: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Birth preparedness is an important strategy for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality by helping families plan for safe delivery and manage obstetric emergencies. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the level of birth preparedness and to identify factors affecting it among post-natal mothers admitted to a medical college hospital in Kolkata. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among a calculated sample of 95 post-natal mothers in Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College Hospital, Kolkata, selected randomly. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule assessing factors affecting birth preparedness. Descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) and inferential statistics (Chi-square) were used for data analysis. Results: The majority of post-natal mothers had a moderate level of birth preparedness. Among mothers with low education, 20% had adequate, 45% had moderate, and 35% had inadequate birth preparedness, whereas among those with higher education, 22 (40%) had adequate, 49.1% had moderate, and only 10.9% had inadequate preparedness. Similarly, among mothers who had fewer than four antenatal visits, only 17.9% had adequate preparedness compared to mothers who attended four or more antenatal visits, among whom 37.3% had adequate preparedness. Statistical analysis showed a significant association between birth preparedness and education (χ2=7.14, P≤0.05) as well as the number of antenatal visits (χ2=6.82, P≤0.05). Conclusion: Birth preparedness among post-natal mothers was moderate, indicating the need for improved antenatal education and counseling by nurses and health professionals. Strengthening maternal health education can improve preparedness and reduce maternal complications.