BIRTH PREPAREDNESS AND COMPLICATION READINESS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN SHAHEED BENAZIRABAD: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Maternal mortality remains a critical public health issue in Pakistan, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions. Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) is a key strategy promoted by the World Health Organization to eliminate critical delays in receiving skilled obstetric care.

Objective: To evaluate the knowledge and practices regarding BPCR, assess awareness of obstetric danger signs, and compare preparedness across public and private healthcare settings in District Shaheed Benazirabad, Sindh, Pakistan.

Methodology: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 133 pregnant

women in their third trimester attending antenatal care at MNCH Hospital (public) and private clinics in Shaheed Benazirabad. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire translated into Urdu and Sindhi. Statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS version 21.0. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Chi-square (X²) tests were applied to assess associations between socio-demographic determinants and BPCR awareness, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Overall, 57.1% of participants demonstrated knowledge regarding BPCR. While 61.7% had identified a skilled birth attendant, critical emergency practices were low: only 32.3% had saved funds for emergencies, and 29.3% had identified a blood donor. Hospital bag preparation was reported by 69.9% of participants. Awareness of obstetric danger signs was present in 55.6% of women, with severe vaginal bleeding being the most recognized sign (63.2%). Maternal age (X ² = 12.329, p = 0.006) and employment status (X² =6.964, p = 0.031) showed statistically significant associations with BPCR knowledge, whereas parity, education, and facility type did not.

Conclusion: Although general awareness of BPCR is moderate, critical gaps persist in emergency financial planning, blood donor selection, and danger sign identification. Targeted antenatal education focusing on young and unemployed women is essential to improve maternal outcomes in the region.