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Background: Severe acute respiratory virus coronavirus-2 disease (COVID-19) vaccination among antenatal mothers plays a vital role in preventing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. We attempted to find out the COVID-19 vaccine uptake rate and to determine the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Methods: Community-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted for 6 months amongst antenatal mothers who are residing in the field practice area of primary healthcare (PHC). The participants were selected based on simple random sampling. Face-to-face interviews were conducted in their house using a pre-designed structured questionnaire after obtaining consent. Results: Amongst 246 antenatal mothers, 82.5% were in the 20-29 years of age group. Only 17.9% of the mothers were illiterates, 88.2% of the participants were homemakers. Majority (97%) belonged to the Hindu religion and more than half of them lived in nuclear families. One hundred and fifty (61%) had taken at least one dose of the vaccine. The logistic regression model was statistically significant (P < 0.05) and had explained 14.2% of the variance in acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine and correctly classified 67.9% of cases. Fear concerning the safety of the vaccine and its side effects was the most commonly reported reason for not taking the vaccine. Conclusion: Targeted interventions to maximise COVID-19 vaccine uptake among pregnant women from ethnic minority communities and those living in deprived areas should be explored.

Background: Prenatal genetic testing is done throughout pregnancy to identify or diagnose birth defects. These tests aim to help families make educated decisions regarding pregnancy and reproduction, as well as aid healthcare providers in providing optimal care for pregnant women. Prenatal blood screening is performed twice during pregnancy. Aim: The present study aims to assess the Effectiveness of video assisted teaching programme on level of knowledge and attitude regarding prenatal genetic testing among antenatal mother. Materials and Methods: A Quasi experimental, one group pre and post experimental research design was used for this study. The study conducted in SMCH. A total of 60 study participants were recruited by using a non probability convenient sample technique, based on inclusion criteria. Results: The analysis revealed that most of the antenatal mothers, 24 (40%) were aged between 21 and 25 years, 33 (55%) had higher secondary education, 34 (56.6%) were private employees, 43 (71.6%) were Hindus, 46 (76.7%) were residing in urban area, 40 (66.6%) had an income of between INR 10,000 and 20,000, and 48 (80%) and 3 (30%) had friends/relatives and health care professionals as source of information. Conclusion: The study found that video education on genetic testing improved patients’ and increased quality of life.

Background: Medical abortion is safer than surgical abortion. Several studies have shown that combination of antiprogesterone drug mifepristone and prostaglandin misoprostol can increase complete abortion rate in medical management of first-trimester miscarriage compared to misoprostol alone. Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, has emerged as an alternative to mifepristone for induction of medical abortion as mifepristone is expensive and not registered in many countries. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combined regimen of letrozole and misoprostol in first-trimester medical abortion compared to misoprostol alone. Materials and Methods: It was a comparative observational study conducted at R. G. Kar Medical College, a tertiary care hospital in West Bengal, India. The study population was the antenatal mothers booked at antenatal clinic willing for termination of pregnancy at

Introduction: Pregnant anaemia is a significant public health concern in developing countries such as India. Objectives: The present study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and determine the dietary predictors of anaemia among antenatal mothers. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted for the study. A consecutive sampling technique was used to select 400 antenatal mothers. The data were collected using a questionnaire, rating scale, and checklist, and they were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The prevalence of anaemia among antenatal mothers was estimated to be 24.84%. Within the sample, 58% had mild anaemia, 39.5% had moderate anaemia, and 2.5% had severe anaemia. There was a highly significant association between anaemia and various dietary predictors. The study revealed that 23.5% of antenatal mothers had insufficient consumption of a diverse diet. Seventy-six percent (76%) of antenatal mothers consumed a sufficient amount of a diverse diet, while only 0.5% of antenatal mothers adequately consumed a diverse diet. The majority of antenatal mothers (80%) had a high dietary diversity ensuring adequate nutrient intake, while 20% of antenatal mothers had low dietary diversity, indicating inadequate consumption of a variety of foods that provide sufficient nutrients. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for antenatal mothers to prioritize a diverse diet and maintain adequate haemoglobin levels for a positive pregnancy outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medical abortion is safer than surgical abortion. Several studies have shown that combination of antiprogesterone drug mifepristone and prostaglandin misoprostol can increase complete abortion rate in medical management of first-trimester miscarriage compared to misoprostol alone. Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, has emerged as an alternative to mifepristone for induction of medical abortion as mifepristone is expensive and not registered in many countries. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combined regimen of letrozole and misoprostol in first-trimester medical abortion compared to misoprostol alone. Materials and Methods: It was a comparative observational study conducted at R. G. Kar Medical College, a tertiary care hospital in West Bengal, India. The study population was the antenatal mothers booked at antenatal clinic willing for termination of pregnancy at <12 weeks of gestational age. Participants were allocated, 39 in each group in a nonrandomized manner. Patients in one group (Group A) were posted for medical abortion with combination regimen of tablet letrozole (10 mg) once daily for 3 days followed by application of tablet misoprostol 800 mcg sublingually on day 4. In other group (Group B), patients were on misoprostol-only regimen with the application of tablet misoprostol 800 mcg sublingually. Results: Induction-abortion time was significantly less in the letrozole group (11±0.79 h) than the misoprostol group (13.23±0.81 h), P=0.0001. Complete abortion rate was significantly higher in the letrozole group compared to misoprostol group (84.62% and 64.10%, respectively, P=0.03). 15.38% patients in the letrozole group and 35.90% patients in the misoprostol group had excessive vaginal bleeding and the difference was statistically significant, P=0.03. The duration of vaginal bleeding was also significantly less in the letrozole group (2.45±0.29 days) than the misoprostol group (2.82±0.37 days), P<0.0001. Incidence of side-effects was comparable and the severity of side-effects was not significantly different between the groups. Conclusion: Letrozole and misoprostol combination regimen leads to significant increase in complete abortion rate and also significant reduction of the duration of vaginal bleeding, induction-abortion time, and need for surgical intervention when compared to misoprostol regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed 240 antenatal mothers in Sri Lanka's Kebithigollawa Medical Officer of Health Clinic. Demographics varied, revealing distinct marital statuses, ethnicities, income levels, and employment statuses. Pregnancy stages, parity, pre-pregnancy BMI, and gestational age exhibited diverse profiles. Hemoglobin levels ranged, reflecting nutritional status, while BMI indicated varied weight categories. Dietary patterns demonstrated associations with maternal health indicators; fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, unsweetened dairy products, prepared food, and rice/noodles positively correlated with hemoglobin levels, BMI, and gestational weight gain. Conversely, some dietary choices displayed weaker correlations. These findings emphasize the need for tailored interventions to enhance antenatal mothers' dietary and physical activity behaviors, benefiting maternal and child health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the association between nutrient intake, oral symptoms, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among antenatal mothers in the Sri Aman district, Sarawak. Methods: A total of 124 antenatal mothers in the second and third trimesters, through systematic random sampling, participated in this cross-sectional study. A validated self-administered questionnaire was used to collect their socioeconomic and obstetric profiles, perceived oral health status, and OHRQoL. Three days 24-hour diet recall assessment involving two weekdays and one weekend day was used for nutrient intake assessment. Results: Most mothers (75.0%) had at least one oral symptom: cavitated tooth (51.6%), bleeding gum (32.3%), halitosis (27.4%), gum pain (13.7%), toothache (12.1%), and swollen gum (6.5%). Most mothers also had inadequate intakes of energy, vitamin D, iodine, calcium, zinc, fluoride, and iron. The most affected OHRQoL domain was psychological discomfort, followed by functional limitation and physical pain. Nutrient intake was not significantly different between antenatal mothers with and without oral symptoms. Antenatal mothers with at least one oral symptom, presence of toothache, cavitated tooth, bleeding gum, and halitosis had significantly lower OHRQoL. Conclusion: Most antenatal mothers had inadequate nutrient intake, particularly vitamin D and calcium. Nutrient intake was not significantly associated with oral symptoms. The oral symptoms of dental caries and periodontal disease were prevalent; and the presence of toothache, cavitated tooth, bleeding gum, and halitosis were associated with poor OHRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Maternal morbidity represents hidden part of iceberg while maternal mortality represents its tip. Thus it is essential to prevent maternal morbidity to put a stop to maternal mortality and maternal near miss episode. Objectives: The aim of this study was to find out occurrence and distribution of maternal morbidity among the mothers attending G&O Department of a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata and to assess risk factors of maternal morbidity among the study population and to find out any relationship among them. Materials & Methods: An observational descriptive hospital based study conducted among antenatal mothers attending antenatal clinic of a tertiary care hospital over 2 months. Data was collected with help of predesigned pretested questionnaire, clinical examination and review of medical records. Data was complied, analysed and presented.Results:22.89% of mothers were suffering from any form of morbidity during 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Most prevalent morbidity was found to be Gestational diabetes (8.42%), followed by Pre eclampsia (3.68%). Maternal residence, maternal obesity, consumption of extra meal and inter pregnancy interval were significantly associated with occurrence of maternal morbidity. Family history of diabetes and hypertension in the first degree relative were significantly associated with occurrence of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia respectively. Conclusion: Knowledge of prevalent risk factors of maternal morbidity helps in effective intervention, which should be intensified to reduce maternal morbidity due to preventable causes.

Background: Anaemia has significant impact on health of the fetus as well as that of mother. Increased need of iron during pregnancy especially after 2nd trimester makes iron supplementation mandatory. Ferrous ascorbate is known to exist intact inside the gastrointestinal tract due to the stable chelation of iron with ascorbate. This compound does not dissociate due to any of the food inhibitors. The aim is to study the effectiveness of Ferrous Ascorbate and Ferrous sulphate in terms of compliance and cost effectiveness of management of anaemia in pregnancy. Methodology: Study design: Quasi Experimental study, Study area: District Vidisha, Study participants: Pregnant women of first trimester registered during the study period in the selected Anganwadis/ Gram Arogya Kendra (GAK), Sample size: 240 antenatal mothers. Results: Baseline mean haemoglobin was 11.31±1.05 gm/dl. The mean increase in Ferrous Sulphate was 0.55 gm/dl, and in Ferrous ascorbate was 1.27 gm/dl. Ferrous Sulphate was less compliant than Ferrous ascorbate, and has higher efficacy and lesser side effects. Only Rs. 10.2 additional cost per antenatal mothers for increase of ≥1gm% in Hb will be borne by government if Ferrous Sulphate is replaced by Ferrous Ascorbate. Conclusions: Study results show statistically significant difference in rise of haemoglobin amongst the antenatal mothers consuming Ferrous ascorbate over Ferrous Sulphate.

BACKGROUND: Every pregnancy is special and each and every pregnant woman must receive special care. It was estimated, by the WHO that deaths due to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy represented 13% of all maternal deaths. The study was conducted with an aim to assess the effect of music therapy on anxiety among antenatal mothers with pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A true experimental research approach with Pretest posttest control group design was adopted for the study. Simple random sampling technique was applied to select 60 participants (30 experimental and 30 controls) but assignment of participants to the respective group was done through odd and even methods. Data was collected by using standardized Speilberger's state trait anxiety inventory and structured observation schedule for demographic data and clinical profile. RESULTS: The present study investigated that in the experiment group, mean anxiety scores in pretest and posttest were 55.23 ± 9.09 and 27.53 ± 4.56 respectively. While in control group, pretest mean anxiety score was 50.73 ± 9.34 and the posttest score was 43.53 ± 8.4. Furthermore, the obtained “t” value was 9.17 with P < 0.00001 which indicated that music therapy was significantly effective in reducing the anxiety scores among pregnant women. In addition, posttest anxiety scores have no significant association with age (P = 0.51), parity (P = 0.82), and period of gestation (P = 0.06). CONCLUSION: Music therapy is effective in reducing anxiety of antenatal mothers with PIH. The therapy can be implemented in clinical settings to decline the levels of anxiety among women with PIH.

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: - Sleeping is a physiological habit that occurs in all animal species. A third of a person's lifecycle is made up of it. Although the specific features of sleep are unspecified, they appear to be vital to living because chronic sleep deprivation causes severe physical impairment, cognitive decline, and death. Sleep disturbances have clinical significance because they are symptoms of almost all mental illnesses. Different people need various amounts of sleep. The recommended daily allowance of night's sleep is around 7 and 9 hours. While some people need about 12 hours of sleep each night, others can function well on less than 6 hours. Good sleeping habits and getting enough sleep are crucial for enhancing cognitive function, preventing health issues, and avoiding psychiatric disorders. In Iran (87%), China (87%), and the United States (53-71%), antenatal women have poor sleep quality. METHODOLOGY: - Using a purposive sampling strategy, the study's pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test research design analyzed the healthy sleep habits of 100 pregnant mothers. CONCLUSION: - As a result, the knowledge of antenatal mothers regarding good sleep practices will improve. And this has an impact on mother’s antenatal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breastfeeding the baby is the most important practice that promotes optimal growth and development of the infant. World Health Organization has recommended exclusive Breastfeeding for the first six months. Breastfeeding not only promotes Infant health and wellbeing but also protects the mother from developing illnesses. There is a compelling need to understand the level of awareness, perceptions and attitude towards breastfeeding and also develop programs to ensure that the knowledge is translated to practice in the postnatal phase. This review highlights the level of knowledge, attitude and perceptions towards breastfeeding, factors influencing the breastfeeding practices, Breastfeeding and its relation to Mental health of new mothers and the various initiatives launched by the Government to promote awareness on breastfeeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus is a public health concern and one of the causes of maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Gestational diabetes is one of the most common health issue that can occur during pregnancy.it happens when the mother is first diagnosed with diabetes during the pregnancy. The minimizing factors for gestational diabetes are adequate knowledge about the condition for early detection and treatment; healthy practices on diet and physical activeness. Awareness of the condition among antenatal women will translate into adoption of a healthy lifestyle, better health-seeking pattern, better self-care practice, which prevent acute complications and reduce the risk of long-term complications and promote pregnancy outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antenatal depression is a nonpsychotic depressive episode that initiates during pregnancy. But it is often under diagnosed and less documented. Maternal depression is one of the risk factor for poor growth and development in young children. Objectives: The present study was conducted with the objectives to assess proportion of mothers at risk of antenatal depression and to find out the distribution of risk factors for maternal depression. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 225 antenatal mothers attending a tertiary care hospital of Kolkata from January to March 2020. The mothers were interviewed face to face using predesigned pretested questionnaire, including use of Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The data were analysed by simple descriptive statistics and statistical tests of significance like Chi square test was applied. Results: About 30.67% of antenatal mothers were found to be possibly suffering from the depression. Maternal educational status, social class, addiction, early registration, consumption of extra meal and iron folifer supplementation were found to be significantly associated with the risk of possible maternal depression. The association between risk of maternal depression and parity, planning of pregnancy were highly significant. Conclusion: The health professionals should regularly screen mothers to detect depressive symptoms at an early stage. Effective prevention programme can help to reduce maternal depression and ensure good perinatal outcome.

Introduction: A woman's body experiences numerous physiological and psychological changes throughout pregnancy in order to accommodate the expanding requirements of the growing fetus. These changes can lead to various pregnancy-related health issues like gestational diabetes, and pre-eclampsia. Women who regularly engage in physical activity during pregnancy have a reduced risk of developing those health problems. Pregnant women should have adequate knowledge and a good attitude towards physical activity during pregnancy, which is an essential precursor for practising exercise. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of antenatal mothers regarding physical activity during pregnancy at a tertiary care hospital in Puducherry., Method: A cross-sectional analytical study design was performed to collect data from 380 antenatal mothers. A convenient sampling technique was used to select the study participants. A structured, validated, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from pregnant women attending the antenatal outpatient department of Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER). Data were coded and analysed by IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 19.0 (Released 2010; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States)., Results: This study revealed that almost half of the antenatal mothers (n=195, 51.3%) had adequate knowledge whereas 185 (48.7%) had inadequate knowledge regarding physical activity during pregnancy. Regarding their attitude, most of the antenatal mothers (n=303, 79.7%) had a favourable attitude and 77 (20.3%) had an unfavourable attitude towards physical activity during pregnancy. It was found that there is a significant association between education, employment, pre-pregnancy physical activity status, co-morbidities, and BMI of the antenatal mothers and their level of knowledge (p < 0.05). Also, educational status, employment status, level of activity in day-to-day life, pre-pregnancy physical activity status, co-morbidities, and number of antenatal visits attended by the antenatal mothers were significantly associated with their level of attitude (p < 0.05)., Conclusion: The level of knowledge regarding physical activity during pregnancy was adequate among antenatal mothers and their attitude seems to be favorable. This does not mean that they are exercising effectively. Therefore, health professionals should put forth their effort to bring about behavioural change among pregnant women towards exercise by conducting counselling sessions, and antenatal exercise classes during their antenatal care visits in order to empower pregnant women to lead a healthy pregnancy., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent for treatment and open access publication was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Institutional Ethics Committee and Nursing Research Monitoring Committee of Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry issued approval JIP/CON/IEC/M.Sc./2022/OBG/2 and JIP/CON/NRMC/M.Sc./2022/OBG/2, respectively. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, J et al.)

Coronavirus disease 2019 is a communicable disease caused by severe acute metabolic process respiratory syndrome coronavirus. Symptoms begin one to 14 days after exposure to the virus (81%) develop mild to moderate symptoms, while 14% develop severely and 5% suffer critical symptoms. The present study aimed to formulate psychological interventions to enhance mental state and psychological resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. To correlate the level of Psychological impact of COVID 19 among antenatal mothers and to find out association between the Psychological impact of COVID 19 among antenatal mothers with their selected demographic variables. This study was conducted with 60 antenatal mothers in a quantitative approach, non-experimental descriptive design by purposive sampling technique. Demographic variables data were collected by using a multiple-choice questionnaire followed by assessing the psychological impact of COVID 19 among antenatal mothers were assessed using completely three different standardized tools. The results showed that 42(70%) had a high level of anxiety of COVID-19 among antenatal mothers, and 18(30%) had no anxiety. 46(76.6%) had had moderate stress, 10(16.7%) had high perceived stress, and 4(6.7%) had low stress. 35(58.3%) had probable depression, 14(23.3%) had a fairly high possibility of depression, 10(16.7%) had depression possible, and only 1(1.7%) had depression not likely among antenatal mothers. Psychological impact of COVID-19 has moderate to severe levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among antenatal mothers in the second and third trimesters. So it is vital to formulate Psychological interventions to enhance mental state, and maternal mental health should be prioritized during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure in reproductive-age women can cause adverse reproductive health outcomes similar to active tobacco smoking such as pregnancy complications, fetal growth restriction, preterm delivery, stillbirths, and infant death. Nearly 56% of the reproductive-age women in the World Health Organization South-East Asian region are exposed to SHS. However, no data is available on exposure to SHS among pregnant mothers, especially in urban slums. Objectives: The objective was to assess the magnitude of exposure to SHS among antenatal mothers in an urban slum and their knowledge regarding hazards of exposure to SHS on them and fetus. Material and Methods: After obtaining ethical clearance, 418 antenatal mothers who visited the antenatal clinic in an urban slum were included. Data regarding exposure to SHS were collected. Their knowledge on hazards of exposure to SHS on both mother and fetus was also collected. Results: Majority were in the age group of 21–25 years (55.5%), studied up to high school (40.7%), and were homemakers (72.1%). Among the 418 antenatal mothers, 277 (66.27%) were exposed to secondhand smoke; 199 (47.61%) at public places, 53 (12.68%) at their homes, and 25 (5.98%) at their workplaces. Only half of the study participants were aware that SHS is injurious to health of the individual, and only 24.4% of the study participants were aware that SHS is also injurious to fetal health. Conclusion: Exposure to SHS among the study participants was high (66.27%), and the awareness regarding the harmful effects of SHS on the health of the mother and fetus among the participants was poor.

Antenatal Care (ANC) includes education, counseling, screening and treatment to monitor and promote the well-being of the mother and fetus. However, the utilization of ANC services is a complex phenomenon influenced by many factors, such as maternal education, maternal employment, accessibility, affordability, family support and decision-making power etc. Objectives: 1. To determine the extent of utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services among antenatal mothers. 2. To identify the factors affecting utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services among antenatal mothers. Materials and methods: An exploratory study was conducted to assess the factors affecting utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services among antenatal mothers at selected rural communities of Amritsar. Stratified sampling technique was used to select 60 antenatal mothers. Data was collected using the semi structured questionnaire to assess the factors affecting utilization of antenatal care services among antenatal mothers. Results: Most of antenatal mothers (93.3%) were registered and 4(6.7%) were not registered for their pregnancy (investigator came to know at the time of home visit). 50(83.3%) antenatal mothers had adequately utilized antenatal care services. Major factors which affect the utilization of ANC services as reported by antenatal mothers were accessibility (53.3%), family support (33.3%), affordability (26.7%). Conclusion: There is adequate utilization of ANC services though some factors act as barrier in the utilization of ANC services. Health care professionals should determine the factors causing poor or irregular utilization of antenatal care services and find the ways to improve it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast milk is the perfect food made for baby. It is best for the infant as it is safe, clean, hygienic and readily available on demand whenever baby is hungry. Breast milk is the primary source of nutrition for new-borns. It contains all the essential nutrients and elements that the child needs for the few years of life. There are various benefits of breastfeeding for infant and mother. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study to evaluate the effectiveness of structured teaching programme in terms of knowledge regarding exclusive breast feeding among antenatal mothers. Methods: This was a pre-experimental one group pre-test post-test study among antenatal mothers, attending gynaecology/obstetrics out patient department (OPD) in Rohilkhand Medical College and Hospital, Bareilly (U.P.). Total 60 participants were selected by non-probability purposive sampling technique. A structured and pretested interviewer administrated questionnaire was used to collect data from study participants. The questionnaire includes sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge of study participants towards EBF. The data were analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The result of the study revealed that the mean post-test knowledge score (13.72 ± 2.351) was greater than the mean pre-test knowledge score (8.43 ± 3.077) with the mean difference of 5.29, hence it shows that the effectiveness of structured teaching programme on knowledge regarding exclusive breast feeding among antenatal mothers. Conclusion: Hence, there is a need to create awareness and knowledge about exclusive breast feeding among mothers during antenatal period. Structured teaching programme helps to enhance the knowledge of the antenatal mothers regarding exclusive breast feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Birth defects (BD) are considered a leading cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. Personal, cultural, and health care system barriers may increase the incidence of BD in low and middle income countries. In this study we assessed the knowledge of antenatal mothers on BD, associated factors, and prevention and management. Methods Three hundred and fifty (350) antenatal mothers were surveyed using a pretested, self-administered questionnaire. The knowledge on BD was evaluated under 3 categories; knowledge on BD, knowledge on associated factors, and knowledge on prevention and management. The total scores were calculated for each category and converted into percentages. A higher percentage score indicates a high level of knowledge. Descriptive statistics and regression models were used for data analysis. Level of significance was considered as p

Background & Objectives:Prevention of Mother to child Transmission (PMTCT) is a global intervention which aims at preventing mother to child transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The study aims to find out knowledge of pregnant women on Mother to child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV/AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).Materials & Methods:A cross-sectional study was carried out at Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal among the pregnant women who came to visit Antenatal Clinic. Data was collected using non-probability purposive sampling technique. Face to face interview was done and a structured questionnaire was developed for data collection. Data analysis and interpretation were done in SPSS and MS Excel.Results:The total number of respondents was 80 with a mean age of 27.4 years. 90% (n=72) respondents were found to be literate. 86.3% (n=69) were well aware of the knowledge on PMTCT. Majority of the respondents (40%) mentioned that radio, TV/Media were the main sources of information about HIV/AIDS. Out of 32.5% (26) who had heard about the window period, only 26.9% (n=7) gave the correct answer. 93.8% (n=75) were well known about the routes of transmission of HIV but only 10.1% (n=7) gave the correct answer about it. Further, 54% (n=43) respondents knew about the availability of drugs to reduce MTCT of HIV/AIDS.Conclusion:The level of awareness about PMTCT among antenatal mothers was satisfactory. However, knowledge was inadequate which imparts for the need of health education about MTCT of HIV/AIDS in every health facilities of Nepal.

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus has become one of the very common perinatal complications. It is a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism diagnosed during pregnancy. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge and lifestyle modification regarding gestational diabetes mellitus among antenatal mothers. Methodology: A Cross-sectional design was used and the study was conducted in the antenatal OPD of a tertiary care teaching hospital of Western Rajasthan. The study included 140 antenatal mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus and seeking antenatal care at antenatal OPD by purposive sampling technique. Knowledge was assessed using structured knowledge questionnaire and lifestyle modification by a structured Rating scale. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and P<0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Majority of the mothers in this study had fair knowledge (83.6%) followed by 10.7% having poor and 5.7% with good knowledge. Majority of mothers (97.1%) developed good level of lifestyle modification after being diagnosed with gestational diabetes and 2.9% had fair level of lifestyle modification. A very weak correlation was found between the knowledge and lifestyle modification (r=0.085). Only level of education was found to be significantly associated with knowledge regarding gestational diabetes (p = <0.01). Conclusion: Since the prevalence of gestational diabetes is increasing, there should be good knowledge and awareness regarding gestational diabetes among antenatal mothers. Health care providers should create awareness and improve knowledge of the mothers regarding gestational diabetes and its possible long term complications [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Mouth is the main part of the body through which the microorganisms can enter inside the body. Nowadays, it is said that various systemic diseases are affected due to the improper care of the buccal cavity or mouth. Periodontal diseases are considered as inflammatory diseases that destroy the supporting structures, resulting in detachment of the bone which is due to the hormonal changes varying the vascular supply and tissue response in the body. The main of study is to knowledge regarding Periodontal Disease and oral hygiene among antenatal mothers attending ANC OPD.METHODOLOGY: The study design was descriptive non-experimental design. The objectives of the study were knowledge regarding Periodontal Disease and oral hygiene among antenatal mothers attending ANC OPD. 100 antenatal natal mothers was selected for the study by using Non-probability convenient sampling technique.RESULT: The major finding showed that the majority of 52% of them were in the age group of 26-29 years, 80% were Hindus, 44% were educated up-to graduation, 77% of them were homemaker, 60% of antenatal mothers were joint families, 60% of antenatal mothers were from urban area, 41% was between Rs 15001-2000, 53% completed 4-6 months, 67% of antenatal mothers were gravida 0, 70% of antenatal mothers were nulliparous, 97% of antenatal mothers did not had knowledge regarding periodontal disease and oral hygiene, 33.33% each had knowledge from relative/friends, health personnel and media. Knowledge score knowledge regarding periodontal disease and oral hygiene. 51% of antenatal mothers had average level of knowledge score, 41% of antenatal mothers had good level of knowledge score, 4% of antenatal mothers had very good and poor knowledge score each However, and none of the antenatal mother had excellent level of knowledge score. CONCLUSION: This indicates that majority of the antenatal mothers had average level of knowledge on Periodontal Disease and oral hygiene. Hence, more collective efforts are required from dental and medical professionals to improve the oral and periodontal health outcomes during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Background: Breast milk is the perfect food and uniquely superior to, artificial baby milk. Giving a child breast milk from another woman is not a newer concept; wet nursing was a fairly common practice a few decades ago. Human milk banks are services which collect, screen, process and distribute donated breast milk. Current research evidences suggest that pasteurized donor human milk can provide many of the components and eliminate the risk of transmission of infectious agents. Method: Quantitative research approach was adopted to assess the knowledge on Human Milk Banking; a structured knowledge questionnaire was given to100 antenatal mothers. The study was conducted at Justice K.S Hegde charitable Hospital. Descriptive survey design was adopted to accomplish the objectives. Results: Findings revealed that 52% of mothers had good knowledge and remaining mothers had an average knowledge. The 'p' value of age with regards to knowledge on human milk banking is 0.099, whereas the 'p' value of parity is 0.718. Meanwhile the 'p' value of family is 0.213 and that of religion is 0.428. For education, occupation, income and any previous exposure with human milk banking the 'p' values were 0.284, 0.082, 0.104 and 0.750 respectively. The above results shows that for all the demographic characteristics, the 'p' value is >0.05. Hence it was found that there was no significant association between knowledge of antenatal mothers with selected demographic variables. Conclusion: Providing knowledge to antenatal mothers on human milk banking serve as an investment for the future needs. The nurse practitioner has a primary responsibility of enhancing the knowledge and developing positive attitude, towards utilization of human milk banking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the knowledge on fetal well being among antenatal mothers in selected tertiary care hospital at Kelambakkam, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu. Methodology: Thenon probability purposive sampling technique sampling technique with the sample of 45 antenatal mothers and questionnaires were formulated structured questionnaire schedule were used to assess the knowledge. Results: Majority of antenatal mothers are inadequate knowledge about fetal well being. Conclusion: The study was conclude improve the knowledge on antenatal mothers about fetal well being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background of the Study: Hypertension, complicating 5-10% of all pregnancies worldwide, is a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity. The control of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) appears difficult to achieve. Part of the reason for poor control of hypertension in these women might be limited PIH self-care knowledge. Objective: to assess the knowledge and risk factors of PIH among antenatal mothers and to find out the association between knowledge and risk factors with selected demographic variables. Materials and Method: Study was conducted on 110 antenatal mothers attending in Gynecologic OPD, AIMS, Kochi, Kerala. The research design used was non experimental descriptive design. Result: The present study reveals that more than half of the mothers (63.6%) had average knowledge regarding PIH. Half of the mothers had the risk factors of family history of hypertension (50%) and followed by 32.7% had the habit of high non vegetarian food intake. A statistically significant association was observed for education and knowledge and comorbidities and knowledge of antenatal mothers. Significant association was found in risk factors and comorbidities of antenatal mothers. Conclusion: The finding of the study shows that antenatal mothers had average knowledge related to PIH. Health care providers should implement the focused health education programme during antenatal visit [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: During pregnancy many changes occur in women's self-concept and the changes in their self- image and the shift in focus from themselves to the needs of the foetus and unfamiliar territory of pregnancy and early motherhood creates anxiety. Relaxation techniques are a great way to help in managing anxiety such as progressive muscle relaxation technique(PMRT) which may be very useful for treating anxiety symptoms during pregnancy. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the effect of progressive muscle relaxation on anxiety among antenatal mothers. Material & Method: Quasi Experimental design with two group pre-test and post-test design was used. Conceptual framework for the study was adopted from Ludwig Von Bertalanffy (1968) General System Model was chosen to conduct the study. Through convenience sampling, 35 subjects were selected in experimental and 35 in control group. Subjects in experimental group (n=35) were provided PMRT and conventional care and in control group (n=35) only conventional care was provided. Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale (PASS) and Socio demographic data sheet was used to collect the data. Results: Results revealed that there was significant difference in level of anxiety after four weeks of progressive muscle relaxation technique in experimental group (p value 0.005) as compared to control group. However, there was no association of pre-test level of anxiety with selected demographic variables Conclusion: The study concluded that progressive muscle relaxation technique was effective in reducing anxiety among antenatal mothers after 4 weeks of intervention in experimental group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A True experimental study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of Helfer skin tap technique on the level of pain during intramuscular injection of Tetanus Toxoid among Antenatal Mothers in a selected Hospital of Delhi and to find out the association between the level of pain experienced by Antenatal Mothers during intramuscular injection using Helfer skin tap technique and selected variables. A total of sixty sample were randomly assigned into 2 groups (30 in experimental group and 30 in control group)using simple random sampling technique. Structured interview schedule was used to collect the demographic characteristics and clinical health data. For the administration of intramuscular injection, Helfer skin tap technique was used for the experimental group and routine technique was used for the control group. Immediately after the administration, the post test pain score was obtained using Numeric pain rating scale. Findings revealed that the mean post test pain score and standard deviation of the experimental group was 1.13 ±1.11 whereas of the control group was 4.23±2.01. The calculated 't' test value 4.42 was found significant at p< 0.05. Significant association was found between the level of pain experienced by Antenatal Mothers during intramuscular injection with Helfer skin tap technique and selected variables such as religion and Body Mass Index but no association was found with other selected variables. The study results showed that Helfer skin tap technique was effective in reducing the level of pain during intramuscular injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quasi experimental research study was conducted during the month of August 2018 with the aim of establishing the effectiveness of ginger tea in reducing the morning sickness. Total of 60 antenatal mothers were selected and grouped into 30 in each for experimental and control respectively. The subjects were selected by using Non probability purposive sampling technique. The level of morning sickness was evaluated by using modified Rhodes index scale among antenatal mothers. The intervention was exercised i.e. Ginger tea 200ml once in a day for 5 days was administered to the subjects of experimental group. The reliability of the tool was determined by using split half method. The reliability coefficient “r” was more than 0.7, hence the tool was found to be reliable. Also, 30 eminent experts from all over India had validated the tool for its content. Data was analyzed using descriptive ie. Frequency and percentage distribution, inferential statistics ie. ‘t’ test, z test. Study results showed that, the ginger tea is effective on morning sickness and statistically there is significant difference in the experimental and control group. Hence study concludes that there is significant effect of ginger tea on morning sickness among antenatal mothers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION Newborn health is closely related to that of their mothers. The simple indicators of the mother like haemoglobin level, height, weight, gestational age of the mother will give the first hand information of deviated health of the neonates. MATERIAL AND METHODS Descriptive correlation study was conducted to assess the impact of physical health status of antenatal mothers on their neonates, 170 antenatal mothers and their born neonates were selected by using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interview schedule, observation of record review and measurement of physical health parameters were used for data collection. A descriptive and inferential statistics were used to investigate the relationships between the variables of antenatal mothers with their neonates with SPSS software version 16. RESULTS The study findings revealed that the weight of the neonates has statistically significant correlation with the maternal weight, height, hemoglobin and maternal gestational weeks; length of the neonates has statistically significant correlation with the maternal height, maternal weight and maternal age; Gestational age (Ballard score) with the maternal gestational weeks and neonates birth weight; neonates head circumference has statistically significant with the maternal height, gestational weeks and maternal weight; chest circumference of the neonates has statistically significant with the maternal height and maternal weight. CONCLUSION The study concluded that there was a significant correlation between the selected maternal weight, height, hemoglobin and gestational weeks with neonatal weight; maternal height, weight, age with neonatal length, head circumference, chest circumference and maternal gestational weeks with neonate gestation age by Ballard score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mental health disorders globally are on a rise due to various reasons. Gender differences have been one of the reasons. Pregnancy is a stressful event in mothers and it can either exacerbate preexisting mental illness or can give rise to other mental health disorders. Studies have shown that women residing in rural areas are at higher risk of developing mental health problems. Mental health problems have detrimental effects in post-partum period. Most of the complications can be prevented if psychiatric symptoms are detected in early part of pregnancy and if women are aware of these symptoms. Aim: To find the awareness, attitude and perception towards mental illness in antenatal mothers residing in rural area of India. Setting and Design: It's a descriptive cross sectional study conducted at primary health care centers. Methods and Materials: Total of 300 antenatal mothers attending primary health care centers were recruited into the study after a written informed consent was obtained. Statistical Analysis: Basic socio demographic data were collected and a semi structured questionnaire was designed. The participants were interviewed according to the questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed using SPSS software. Results and Conclusion: The mean age of the study participants was 24+5. Of the 300 study participants more than 90% were unaware that mental illness can occur during pregnancy and only around 07% could agree say that it can occur in pregnancy. There is poor awareness of mental health problems amongst pregnant women residing in rural part of southern India. The reasons for the same are lack of awareness, low levels of education, lower socio economic status, cultural beliefs and practices, lack of mental health services and stigma associated with mental illness. There is no routine screening for mental health problems during antenatal visits. If done otherwise could bring down adverse maternal outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physiological changes that happen during pregnancy and after delivery may affect every mother's quality of life. They may face chronic back pain and incontinence issues due to negligence of postnatal exercises. Though a large volume of scientific evidence suggests that post natal exercises are beneficial for preventing disorders and dysfunctions, we were interested in investigating the present level of knowledge regarding the therapeutic benefits of postnatal exercises among antenatal mothers. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional prospective hospital-based study was carried out among 62 antenatal mothers by handing out a structured postnatal exercise knowledge assessment questionnaire. The result showed that majority of mothers who were admitted at King Abdul-Aziz Medical City in their third trimester had knowledge regarding postnatal exercises representing (70.53%) of the total participants, whereas only (29.47 %) of mothers were unaware of the benefits of postnatal exercises. However the mothers who had knowledge about the benefits of postnatal exercises were not all at the same level of awareness, which means that there were variations among their responses in each item of the questionnaire. It is evident from this study that higher number of antenatal mothers, who were admitted in King Abdul-Aziz Medical City in their third trimester, had knowledge regarding benefits of postnatal exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background of the study: Pregnancy is a special time for a woman and her family. It is a time of many changes in a pregnant woman's body. Stress during pregnancy may lead to several problems to the mother and unborn child. Stress reacts physically, mentally and emotionally to the various conditions. The aim of this study was to find out the level of stress among antenatal mothers and its association with selected demographic variables among antenatal mothers. Materials and Method: Study was conducted on 150 antenatal mothers attending in Gynecology OPD, AIMS, Kochi, Kerala. The research design used was non experimental descriptive design. Result: The present study reveals that more than half of the mothers (51%) had average to high level of stress. Majority of the sample (64%) had average level of stress in the second trimester. A statistically significant association was observed for education of antenatal women and stress. Conclusion: stress during antenatal period was observed among more than half the women and most of the mothers had average level of stress in second trimester. Stress was significant association with type of work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Uterine Prolapse (UP) is the contributor to reproductive health problems that influence the women’s quality of life. It is the most frequent cause of gynaecological morbidities among women in India and major indication for hysterectomy. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of Structured Teaching Programme (STP) on knowledge regarding preventive measures of UP among mothers and to find out the association between knowledge of mothers regarding preventive measures of UP and selected demographic variables. Materials and Methods: A quantitative research approach with pre-experimental one group pre-test and post-test design was used for the study. The setting of the study was Gynaecology OPD at AIMS, Kochi. By using non-probability convenience sampling technique, 40 antenatal mothers were selected. A semistructured questionnaire was used to assess the demographic data and knowledge regarding preventive measures of the UP in mothers. The STP was provided to the participants after pre-test. The post-test was done on the 14th day after pre-test. The sample characteristics were described using frequency, percentage. Chi–square test was used to find out the association between knowledge of mothers regarding preventive measures of UP and selected demographic variables. Results: The mean pre-test knowledge score was 11.85±4.36 and the mean post-test knowledge score was 19.75±2.98. There was a statistically significant improvement in the level of knowledge regarding preventive measures of UP among the mothers (t-value=16.01, p

Background: Nutritional requirement increases during pregnancy can influence the growth, development, and health of the mother and her newborn child. Understanding the antenatal mothers' nutrition knowledge is essential to developing effective strategies to curb malnutrition and encouraging healthier dietary behaviors. The aim of this study was to assess the level and associated factors of nutritional knowledge during pregnancy among antenatal mothers in a tertiary teaching hospital in northeast Malaysia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was done on 88 randomly selected antenatal mothers at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic during their antenatal care visits. Data was collected using a pretested self-administered questionnaire between December 2015 and February 2016. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to determine the association of selected socio-demographic variables and obstetric data with nutritional knowledge score among antenatal mothers. Results: The mean age of the participants was 32.06 ± 5.56 years. More than half (63.6%) of the antenatal mothers had good nutritional knowledge level. Higher occupational status (p=0.030) and monthly household income (p=0.016) of participants were significantly associated with higher nutritional knowledge score. Conclusion: These findings highlight the current knowledge gap that exists in antenatal mothers. It can be concluded that nutritional education ought to be intensified to address this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background of the study: The growing fetus depends entirely on its mother′s healthy body for all needs. However, sometimes it can be a time of fear of suffering and death, in case women begin pregnancy with low or absent stores of iron because of previous pregnancy, poor iron intake, substance abuse; increased fetal demands of iron leads to iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of malnutrition in the world and is the eighth leading cause of death in pregnant women in developing countries leading to the low birth weight, which is in turn an important risk factor for infant mortality. Objectives: To determine the knowledge of antenatal mothers regarding management of anemia during pregnancy. Materials and Methods: Non-experimental descriptive study was conducted to assess the knowledge of antenatal mothers from Yenepoya Medical College Hospital. A sample size consists of 50 antenatal mothers were selected through non-probability purposive sampling. The data was collected by using pretested structured knowledge questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 16 and the results expressed as proportions. Results: The majority of the antenatal mothers (54%) had satisfactory knowledge, 38% had poor knowledge, and 8% had good knowledge regarding anemia during pregnancy. Conclusion: The overall knowledge in the study population was 29.9%. Hence, the researcher emphasizes the need for more research to improve the knowledge of antenatal mothers on anemia during pregnancy.

Introduction: Uterine Prolapse (UP) is the contributor to reproductive health problems that influence the women's quality of life. It is the most frequent cause of gynaecological morbidities among women in India and major indication for hysterectomy. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of Structured Teaching Programme (STP) on knowledge regarding preventive measures of UP among mothers and to find out the association between knowledge of mothers regarding preventive measures of UP and selected demographic variables. Materials and Methods: A quantitative research approach with pre-experimental one group pre-test and post-test design was used for the study. The setting of the study was Gynaecology OPD at AIMS, Kochi. By using non-probability convenience sampling technique, 40 antenatal mothers were selected. A semistructured questionnaire was used to assess the demographic data and knowledge regarding preventive measures of the UP in mothers. The STP was provided to the participants after pre-test. The post-test was done on the 14th day after pre-test. The sample characteristics were described using frequency, percentage. Chi--square test was used to find out the association between knowledge of mothers regarding preventive measures of UP and selected demographic variables. Results: The mean pre-test knowledge score was 11.85±4.36 and the mean post-test knowledge score was 19.75±2.98. There was a statistically significant improvement in the level of knowledge regarding preventive measures of UP among the mothers (t-value=16.01, p<0.05) and significant association was found between Pre-test level of knowledge and age of mothers (Χ2=6.30,p=0.043). However, no significant association was found between pre-test level of knowledge and selected demographic and clinical variable which includes education, occupation, place of residence, previous information about UP etc. Conclusion: The findings of the study showed a significant improvement in knowledge regarding preventive measures of UP among mothers. The STP was effective and it is also suggested that the programme should be continued in order to uplift the overall health and practices of mothers. Hence, it will help to reduce the incidence of UP and enhance the quality of life in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) during gravidity are among the most preponderant contagion globally and can culminate in fetal and maternal mortality. Lack of awareness and poor preventive practices can exacerbate this outcome. This study assessed the knowledge and preventive practices of antenatal mothers' towards UTIs in pregnancy., Design: This was a cross-sectional descriptive survey involving antenatal mothers in selected health care facilities in Ekiti State., Methods: A pre-tested adapted questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square at p  < 0.05., Results: The mean respondents' age was 24.6 ± 2.1 years and barely less than half (43.8%) were multigravida. The findings of the study revealed that 64.0% of the respondents had good knowledge of UTIs. Overall, majority (78.9%) of the respondents exhibit good preventive practices toward UTIs in pregnancy, although the prevalence of UTIs among the studied subjects was found to be high (54.1%), with nearly half (48.7%) of the respondents reported been tested once for UTIs in the current pregnancy. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant relationship between educational level and respondents' knowledge on the prevention of UTIs in pregnancy ( p  = 0.00; p  < 0.05)., Conclusions: Respondents had good knowledge and good preventive practices toward UTIs. However, the high prevalence of UTIs reported among respondents justifies the need for implementation of knowledge enhancement program, routine testing and prompt treatment of UTIs among antenatal mothers., Competing Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2023.)

The wellbeing of the society is directly linked to the health and survival of the mother and child. Although the birth of a child is one of the happiest events in all over the world, yet pregnancy and child birth are associated with the health risks to many women during their reproductive years. Aim: Study the effectiveness of awareness program on warning signs of pregnancy among antenatal mothers. Material & Method-Quantitative quasi-experimental design was trailed to obtain bias free results. One Hundred antenatal mothers who were aged more than 17 years and first and second trimester of pregnancy were conveniently selected to observe the study variables. Self-developed and validated questionnaire was used to collect the information from the antenatal mothers regarding warning signs of pregnancy. Results: In pre-test antenatal mothers showed a subnormal (48.2%) knowledge score regarding warning signs of pregnancy. Since, the awareness program was executed among the study participants the mothers knowledge score was raised to conspicuous (71.6%) manner. The inferential statistics demonstrated that the mothers knowledge regarding warning signs of pregnancy was influenced by their age, educational status, occupation, type of family, family monthly income, residence and gravida status at the significant level of p<0.05. Conclusion: It is evident that awareness program will motivate the antenatal mothers and help them to acquire knowledge about warning signs of pregnancy will promote adequate practice in them to ensure maternal and fetal well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Breast milk provides nutritional, immunological, behavioral, and economic benefits and helps to build mother-infant bonding. Antenatal mothers need to be sufficiently aware about the benefits of breastfeeding. Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the awareness and perception of breastfeeding among antenatal mothers and to find out any association between sociodemographic factors and breastfeeding awareness. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 antenatal women residing in the urban slums of field-practice area of urban health and training center; using a predesigned, pretested, semi-structured interview schedule. Antenatal checkup followed by one to one counseling for the women regarding breastfeeding was provided. Data were represented by frequencies, proportions, and associations using Chi-square, and the P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Most (55.6%) of the women were in the age group of 18–24 years. The mean age at marriage was 19.2 ± 2.5 years. 81.2% of them were Hindus, 13.2% had adequate, 49.6% had moderately adequate, whereas 37.2% women had inadequate awareness about breastfeeding. About 100% intended to breastfeed their children, but only 64% said that they intended to exclusively breastfeed. 66.4% knew about the importance of colostrum. Age-group, religion, literacy, occupation, type of family, gravida, and number of antenatal visits showed highly significant (P < 0.001) association with awareness of breastfeeding. Conclusion: Nearly one-third of the antenatal mothers lacked awareness on breastfeeding practices. Although all intended to breastfeed, still only 64% knew about exclusive breastfeeding. These gaps need to be addressed by awareness generation activities during antenatal counseling.

Introduction: Anaemia in pregnancy is still a major concern in reducing maternal morbidity and mortality in India particularly in rural population. Haemoglobinopathies are important contributors to anaemia in pregnancy in rural India particularly in tribal population. Beta thalassemia is the commonest type of haemoglobinopathy all over the world. Thalassemia and other haemoglobinopathies are highly prevalent among the tribal communities in West Bengal. Bankura is one of the districts of West Bengal where more tribal population are present. So detection and prevention of thalassemias is one of the major public health problems in this part of the state of West Bengal.Study done by Manna et al4 showed that about 10% of the population is carrier of haemoglobin disorder.This study was taken up to document the recent prevalence status of hemoglobinopathies particularly Thalassemias and coexistence of iron deficiency anaemias Objective: To find out prevalence of haemoglobinopathies and to compare the prevalence of different types of Thalassemias among the antenatal mothers. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out in Bankura Sammilani Medical College (BSMC), Bankura West Bengal among 3500 tribal and non-tribal antenatal mothers. Cation exchange-high performance liquid chromatography (CE-HPLC) is being used for investigation for hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias. Together with a complete blood count, the CE-HPLC is effective in categorizing hemoglobinopathies as traits, homozygous disorders and compound heterozygous disorders. Results: In our study 275 mothers had haemoglobinopathy. The commonest disorder we encountered was Beta Thalassemia trait (57.5%), followed by HbE carrier (36%), homozygous HbE disease (1%), HbS carrier (4%), HbE Beta Thalassemia (1.5%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Labor pain is known and defined as one of the most severe varieties of pain. As a result, an appropriate pain management plan is important both for a successful delivery and to decrease the pain as much as it possible. A variety of analgesics for delivery are used in different regions of the world. Epidural analgesia is the most frequently used method of pain control. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge and attitude of antenatal mothers regarding painless delivery and to find out the deficit areas with the view to prepare a pamphlet for the same. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An exploratory research approach and non experimental research design was used to assess the knowledge and attitude of 100 antenatal mothers regarding painless delivery who were selected by using purposive sampling technique. The present study was conducted in the antenatal clinic at Christian Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect the relevant data and attitude scale was also used for the same. RESULTS: This study revealed that most of the antenatal mothers (44%) had average knowledge and a majority of the antenatal mothers i.e. 80% had positive attitude towards painless delivery. The relationship between knowledge and attitude of antenatal mothers was moderately positive regarding painless delivery. Education, occupation, family income, source of information, place of living were found significantly associated with the both knowledge and attitude of antenatal mothers regarding painless delivery. CONCLUSION: Although knowledge of antenatal mothers regarding painless delivery is inadequate but their attitude towards painless delivery was positive. Thus, it can be concluded that there is a need to educate them about availability of painless delivery option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy is the vital event in the life of a woman. It needs special attention from the time of conception to the postnatal stage. Preparing for the childbirth is one of the most exciting times for a woman. The present study was aimed to determine the extent of birth preparedness and to find out the association of birth preparedness among antenatal mothers with selected demographic variables. An exploratory study was carried out among antenatal mothers residing at selected villages of Amritsar, Punjab. Data was collected from 100 antenatal mothers by convenient sampling technique. Birth preparedness interview schedule was adopted. Out of 100 antenatal mothers 69% had poor extent of birth preparedness followed by 31% had average birth preparedness. Majority (90%) of antenatal mothers had identified the place of delivery, 83% had identified the skilled birth attendant, 69% had arranged the transportation for delivery, 35% had saved money for delivery and only 10% had arranged the blood donor in case of an emergency. Seventy five percent, forty nine percent and forty one percent antenatal mothers knew ≤3 danger signs during pregnancy, childbirth and first two days after birth respectively and sixty six percent antenatal mothers knew ≤3 danger signs during the first seven days after birth that could endanger the life of new-born. Factors which showed significant association on birth preparedness was age, education, socio economic status and trimester at (p<0.05). It concluded that age, education, socio economic status and trimester resulted in better birth preparedness in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stem cell research is one of the most important and at the time, the most controversial topics of science today. Blood stem cells have been used to treat certain cancer, blood and metabolic and immune disease. Methodology: The aim was to assess the knowledge and attitude of antenatal mothers about cord blood donation and to associate between knowledge score and selected demographic variables. It was a descriptive study conducted among 70 antenatal mothers at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi. The sample selected by Non Probability convenience sampling technique and data collected by semi structured knowledge questionnaire including socio-demographic variables. Investigator developed five point Likert scale to assess the attitude of antenatal mothers regarding cord blood donation. Result: Majority of the antenatal mothers (61%) had poor knowledge, 29% of the mothers had average knowledge and only 10% of them had good knowledge regarding cord blood donation. The mean knowledge of antenatal mothers was 4.17 with a Standard Deviation of 1.802.Out of total subjects 41.4% mothers had positive attitude, 48.6% mothers had average attitude and 10% of the mothers had negative attitude towards cord blood donation. There was no significant association between knowledge score and selected demographic variables. Conclusion: From the study, investigator observed that antenatal mothers had very little knowledge regarding the concept of cord blood donation, one the other hand majority of them have average attitude to cord blood donation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]