Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices regarding Antenatal Care among Pregnant Women in Kabul City, Afghanistan

Abstract

Knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) for an antenatal check-up during pregnancy is a key indicator of a healthcare facility in a community. Antenatal care (ANC) is a useful practice for lowering infant and maternal mortality. Therefore, the present study was planned to estimate knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding (ANC) among pregnant women and determine its association with sociodemographic factors. This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 406 pregnant women through convenience sampling from March 2022 to February 2024. A semi-structured questionnaire included sociodemographic and obstetrical history, and scored questionnaire on (KAP) was used. The analysis included parametric, nonparametric, and Pearson correlation coefficient tests. The finding of the study revealed that pregnant women had average knowledge (96%), positive attitudes (98.75%), and good practices (58.5%) toward (ANC). The level of overall knowledge had a positive correlation with the practices toward (ANC) (r = 0.18, P < 0.001). The sociodemographic association showed that age, type of family, education, and occupation had a significant association with awareness and practices about (ANC). Furthermore, the practice of (ANC) in our study area was low despite good knowledge and attitude toward (ANC). Further, exploratory studies are required and need to be planned to improve practices in prenatal care and ultimately improve their health.