MOTHERS’ PARTICIPATION IN ACTIVITIES OF PRE-PREGNANCY PREPARATION AND ITS INFLUENCING FACTORS. A DESCRIPTIVE CORRELATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Pre-pregnancy preparation serves to optimise a woman’s health prior to conception. Engagement in pre-pregnancy care has been associated with improved maternal and child outcomes during pregnancy as well as child’s health after birth. Even with documented benefits, the percentage of mothers participating in such activities remain low. Most researches surrounding pre-preparation preparation are conducted in Western countries. As such, more emphasis needs to be placed on exploring the Asian population to enhance understanding of potential factors that affects pre-pregnancy preparation. Aims: To identify the level of participation in pre-pregnancy preparation, as well as its influencing factors in mothers in Singapore. Methods: A descriptive correlational study design was adopted. A total of 100 mothers were recruited through convenience sampling. Self-developed questionnaires were used to assess knowledge, attitude, awareness, perceived subjective norms as well as the level of pre-pregnancy preparation in mothers. Content validity and reliability of the questionnaires were examined. Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient was used to determine significant relationships between variables. Multiple linear regression was used to examine the factors influencing mothers’ participation in pre-pregnancy preparation. Results: Significant relationships were observed between pre-pregnancy preparation and awareness (p < 0.01) as well as perceived subjective norms (perceived agreement) (p < 0.01). Awareness about pre-pregnancy preparation (p = 0.001) and education level (p = 0.006) significantly influenced mothers’ participation in activities of pre-pregnancy preparation. Conclusion and Implications: This study highlighted the importance of raising awareness and reaching out to women with lower educational attainment in the promotion of pre-pregnancy preparation. The healthcare system should implement initiatives that promote and encourage pre-pregnancy care. Future studies can consider exploring the views of healthcare professionals, so as to gain a more comprehensive understanding on the provision of such care.