Blood Donation and Perception of Pregnant Women at Tertiary Care

Abstract

Background: Blood donation is vital for obstetric care, yet voluntary donation rates remain low in Pakistan. Pregnant women represent both frequent recipients and potential influencers within families, making their perceptions crucial to strengthening safe blood supply. Objective: To assess knowledge, perceptions, and willingness regarding blood donation among pregnant women attending a tertiary care hospital, and to identify factors influencing their attitudes. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at PMC Hospital, Nawabshah, from May to November 2024. A total of 216 pregnant women aged 18–45 years were enrolled through consecutive sampling. Data was collected via a structured, pre-tested questionnaire covering socio-demographic factors, knowledge, perceptions, and practices. Analysis employed descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression to determine independent predictors of willingness. Results: Mean age was 31.9 ± 7.7 years, with most women residing in rural areas (65.7%). Overall, 42.1% were willing to donate blood. Higher knowledge scores (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.15–1.58, p<0.001) predicted willingness, whereas greater perceived barriers (fear of weakness, infection, infertility myths) reduced it (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.34–0.87, p=0.011). Socio-demographic variables were not significant predictors. Conclusion: Less than half of the participants were willing to donate blood. Targeted antenatal education addressing myths and fears could improve voluntary donation. Broader public health strategies should integrate culturally sensitive messaging and strengthen antenatal counseling.

Keywords: Blood Donation, Perception, Pregnant Women, Willingness, Barriers, Pakistan, Maternal Health.