Perception and Practice of Maternal Nutrition among Pregnant Women in Primary Health Centres Ogbomoso-North Local Government, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal nutrition and practices among pregnant women are crucial factors that significantly impact the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus. Adequate nutrition during pregnancy is essential to support fetal growth and development, and to also maintain the health of the pregnant women. This study will therefore assess the perception and practice of Maternal nutrition among pregnant women attending selected Primary Health Centres. Methods: The study adopted a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design. A simple random sampling technique was used to recruit 125 pregnant women from Katangua and Ibrahim Primary Health Centres at Ogbomoso North Local government. Ethical approval was taken to both centres. Questionnaire was used as the instrument of data collection during clinic visit. The data collected was analyzed with SPSS using descriptive statistics. Results: The result of the study revealed an overall good perception (97.6%) of maternal nutrition. Contrariwise, there is a disturbing rate of poor nutritional practice as majority (45.6%) rarely eat fruits and vegetables during pregnancy. There is no significant relationship between the level of education (p=0.129), perception (p=0.894) and the practice of nutrition among pregnant women. Family income and family size were the leading factors associated with nutritional practices among respondents. Discussion: Reorienting the health system using primary health care (PHC) approach is important in improving the nutritional practices and the general well-being of pregnant women, as it gives access to them at grassroot level. Also, it is imperative for health professionals, especially nurses, to raise awareness regarding the importance of maternal nutrition during pregnancy. This will help to improve maternal nutritional perception and practice.