Exploring birth preparedness and complication readiness among expectant women: insights into perceptions, knowledge channels, and preparation practices in a resource-limited setting

Q2 Nursing

International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences Pub Date : 2026-01-01 Epub Date: 2026-03-10 DOI:10.1016/j.ijans.2026.101042

Kenneth Akintunde Onilude , Deborah Tolulope Esan , Adetunmise Oluseyi Olajide , Ayodeji Olubunmi Ogunmuyiwa , Theresa Olaitan Bamigboye , Carlos Guillermo Ramos

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background

Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) are vital strategies for lowering maternal and neonatal risks, particularly in resource-constrained areas. The ways in which expectant women perceive BPCR, access information, and engage with readiness tools directly influence their capacity to navigate childbirth and unforeseen complications. This study explored perceptions, information sources and BPCR practices among expectant women at four health facilities in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Methods

A qualitative exploratory design was employed at four healthcare facilities in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria. Twelve expectant women, purposively recruited from antenatal clinic attendees based on varying gestational ages and parity, participated in face-to-face, researcher-developed semi-structured interviews lasting 30–45 min each. Interviews were audio-recorded with consent, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach to identify patterns in participants’ perceptions, information sources, and readiness practices. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board, ensuring informed consent and confidentiality.

Results

Perceptions of BPCR crystallized into three themes: integrated holistic strategies, proactive early engagement, and proactive anticipation of risks. Information sources revealed four themes: facility-based antenatal sessions, personal and communal experiences, internet and social media outlets, and formal educational resources. Readiness practices yielded seven themes, including heightened awareness of complications, arrangements for transportation, and financial safeguarding.

Conclusion

Expectant women regard BPCR as a multifaceted, anticipatory process that fosters safer birthing experiences. Leveraging varied information pathways and systematic checklists bolsters their empowerment for effective planning. Enhancing targeted education and community support mechanisms holds promise for advancing maternal preparedness and health equity.

查看原文本刊更多论文

探索孕妇的分娩准备和并发症准备：在资源有限的情况下对观念、知识渠道和准备实践的见解

分娩准备和并发症准备（BPCR）是降低孕产妇和新生儿风险的重要策略，特别是在资源有限的地区。孕妇感知BPCR、获取信息和使用准备工具的方式直接影响她们应对分娩和不可预见并发症的能力。本研究探讨了尼日利亚奥约州Ogbomoso四家卫生机构孕妇的观念、信息来源和BPCR做法。方法采用定性探索性设计，对尼日利亚奥约州Ogbomoso的四家医疗机构进行调查。根据不同的胎龄和胎次，有目的地从产前诊所的参与者中招募了12名孕妇，参加了面对面的、由研究人员开发的半结构化访谈，每次持续30-45分钟。访谈在征得同意的情况下录音，逐字抄录，并使用Braun和Clarke的主题分析方法进行分析，以确定参与者的感知模式、信息来源和准备实践。获得了机构审查委员会的伦理批准，确保知情同意和保密。结果对BPCR的看法集中体现为三个主题：综合整体战略、前瞻性早期参与和前瞻性风险预测。信息来源揭示了四个主题：基于设施的产前检查、个人和社区经验、互联网和社交媒体渠道以及正规教育资源。准备实践产生了七个主题，包括提高对复杂性的认识、运输安排和财务保障。结论孕妇认为BPCR是一个多方面的、预期的过程，可以促进更安全的分娩体验。利用不同的信息途径和系统的检查表可以增强他们进行有效规划的能力。加强有针对性的教育和社区支持机制有望促进孕产妇准备工作和保健公平。

本文章由计算机程序翻译，如有差异，请以英文原文为准。

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来源期刊

International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences Nursing-Nursing (all)

CiteScore

2.40

自引率

0.00%

发文量

114

审稿时长

21 weeks

期刊介绍： International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences (IJANS) is an international scientific journal published by Elsevier. The broad-based journal was founded on two key tenets, i.e. to publish the most exciting research with respect to the subjects of Nursing and Midwifery in Africa, and secondly, to advance the international understanding and development of nursing and midwifery in Africa, both as a profession and as an academic discipline. The fully refereed journal provides a forum for all aspects of nursing and midwifery sciences, especially new trends and advances. The journal call for original research papers, systematic and scholarly review articles, and critical papers which will stimulate debate on research, policy, theory or philosophy of nursing as related to nursing and midwifery in Africa, technical reports, and short communications, and which will meet the journal''s high academic and ethical standards. Manuscripts of nursing practice, education, management, and research are encouraged. The journal values critical scholarly debate on issues that have strategic significance for educators, practitioners, leaders and policy-makers of nursing and midwifery in Africa. The journal publishes the highest quality scholarly contributions reflecting the diversity of nursing, and is also inviting international scholars who are engaged with nursing and midwifery in Africa to contribute to the journal. We will only publish work that demonstrates the use of rigorous methodology as well as by publishing papers that highlight the theoretical underpinnings of nursing and midwifery as it relates to the Africa context.