Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness among Husbands Whose Wives were Delivered Within the Last 12 Months: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) is an essential element of the antenatal care package which promotes pregnant women and their families to effectively plan for normal births and prepares them for any complications that may arise. This study aimed to explore the husbands’ preparedness and their knowledge level of BPCR. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 117 husbands whose wives delivered within the last 12 months in the out-patient and in-patient wards of the Obstetrics and Pediatrics departments of a medical college. The data were collected from August to December 2021 using a non-probability purposive sampling technique and a pre-tested semi-structured interview questionnaire. The statistical analysis was made at 95% confidence level. The data were summarized and described using descriptive statistics such as proportion, percentage, ratios, frequency distribution, mean and standard deviation. Results: None of the respondents knew all the three key danger signs of the postpartum period. More than three-quarters (78.6%) of the husbands were prepared in the BPCR component. Conclusion: Few husbands knew all the key danger signs during pregnancy, labor, postpartum and newborn periods. Slightly more than three-quarters of husbands were prepared well for birth and complication readiness. Individual components of BPCR was also poor among the respondents.

Keywords

• Birth preparedness and complication readiness
• Husbands
• Wives