Knowledge of the Association Between Periodontal Diseases and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes among Pregnant Women in Ivory Coast: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Purpose: Several studies have established a significant association between periodontal diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, low birth weight and preeclampsia. Despite this, awareness among pregnant women, particularly in developing countries, remains insufficient, potentially impeding the adoption of preventive measures. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of pregnant women in Ivory Coast regarding the association between periodontal diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study included pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in the gynecology-obstetrics department of the Cocody University Hospital in Ivory Coast. A questionnaire was distributed to assess sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge about the relationship between periodontal diseases and pregnancy complications. Data were analysed using the chi-squared test, with the level of significance set at p 0.05.

Results: The study sample included 338 pregnant women with an average age of 30.78 years (± 5.90). Of these, 24.26% were aware that periodontal disease could induce complications in pregnant women and newborns. The knowledge of pregnant women is correlated with their educational level (p = 0.023) and their profession (p = 0.009).

Conclusion: Knowledge among pregnant women about the association between periodontal diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes remains insufficient in Ivory Coast. These results highlight the necessity for continuous improvement of educational programs targeting pregnant women and healthcare providers on this topic.