Knowledge and awareness of pregnancy-related hypertension and utilization of exercises as its preventive strategies: Survey of pregnant women in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy-related hypertension (PRH) is the leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Knowledge and prevention strategy of PRH among pregnant women is imperative to promote favourable outcomes. This study examined the knowledge and awareness of PRH, including exercises as a preventive strategy and factors related to it, among pregnant women in Enugu, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The study utilized a cross-sectional design. A structured questionnaire guided the collection of data from a sample of 296 women aged 18 years and above in multiple centres across the state. Results: 68.6% of respondents know PRH, while 52.36% know antenatal exercises as a preventive strategy for PRH. The level of education and maternal age were factors significantly associated with knowledge of PRH and exercises as a preventive strategy, respectively. Conclusion: The study concluded that knowledge of PRH is high, while the knowledge and use of exercises to prevent the condition is average among expectant mothers.

Keywords

• exercises
• hypertension
• knowledge
• nigeria
• pregnancy