Evaluation of Obstetricians' Knowledge and Practice Behaviour Concerning Periodontal Disease as a Potential Risk Factor for Preterm Delivery and Low Birth Weight in North Gujarat

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal periodontal infection has been recognized as a risk factor for preterm and low birth weight infants. So, the aim of study was to assess the knowledge and attitudes of practicing obstetricians about the relationship between oral health and pregnancy outcomes, as well as their practice behaviour regarding oral healthcare in pregnant women in North Gujarat. Methodology: A random, cross-sectional study in a population of practicing obstetricians from North Gujarat was carried out. Ninety practicing obstetricians gave consent to join the study. Data was collected in questionnaire format from the subject population. Collected data was statistically analyzed. Chi-square test with Yates correction was used to analyze the data. “p” value of <0.01 was taken as significant. Results: 73.3% of the obstetricians said that their patients complained of bleeding gums, swelling and mobility. 58.3% of the obstetricians were aware that gum diseases occur at a higher rate in pregnant females. 38.3% of the obstetricians were aware that periodontal diseases can affect the outcome of delivery. Conclusion: This study found that although obstetricians were knowledgeable about dental care practices during pregnancy and the relationship between oral health and pregnancy outcomes, this knowledge often did not translate into appropriate practice behavior.

Keywords

• Awareness, obstetrician, pregnancy, periodontitis, preterm low birth weight