FACTORS INFLUENCING BIRTH PREPAREDNESS AND COMPLICATION READINESS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC IN SELECTED PHC IN OGBOMOSO NORTH, OGBOMOSO

ABSTRACT Birth preparedness and complication readiness is a strategic intervention to achieve a reduction in the rate of maternal mortality. However, despite the importance and ease of use of this intervention, it has been observed that several factors have hindered the practice. Hence, this study aimed to identify the factors influencing birth preparedness and complication readiness amongst pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in selected PHC in Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso. A descriptive research design was used in this study and convenience sampling technique was used to recruit 136 respondents. A self-structured questionnaire was used as instrument of data collection. The responses were analysed with descriptive statistics using SPSS Version 23 and the hypothesis stated was tested using chi square. The results revealed that most of the respondents 72(52.9%) were between the ages of 25-29 years. 84(61.8%) of the respondents have high level of knowledge and 52(38.2%) have low level of knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness. 64(47.1%) of the respondents have high level and 72(52.9%) have low level of birth preparedness and complication readiness. Factor influencing birth preparedness and complication readiness are; age, occupation, educational status of husband, number of children and estimated monthly income in naira. There is significant relationship between educational status and knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness amongst pregnant women attending antenatal clinic (P-value=0.000). Also, there is no significant relationship between knowledge and level of birth preparedness and complication readiness amongst pregnant women attending antenatal clinic (P-value=0.589). In conclusion, larger percentage have high level of knowledge and preparedness. However, measures should be employed to address the identified factors to improve the practice of birth preparedness and complication readiness. Empowering women through increasing educational training is an important step in enhancing BPCR and reducing delays in obtaining skilled obstetric care. Keywords: Antenatal clinic, Birth preparedness, Complication readiness, Factors, Pregnant women. Word Counts: 293 words