Perceived risk factors and preventive practices of Hepatitis B viral infection among pregnant women in Nigerian hospitals: A cross-sectional study

Objective

The study assessed the perceived risk factors and prevention practices of HBV infection among pregnant women in Nigerian hospitals.

Study Design

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 343 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at two purposefully selected primary health care centers in Ile-Ife. Women were included in the study using systematic sampling. A structured researcher-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Descriptive and inferential (Chi-square test and Logistic regression) statistical analysis were carried out.

Results

More than half (53%) of the respondents had a low perceived risk for hepatitis. Majority (73.5%) had been screened for HBV during the index pregnancy but only 30% received complete doses of HBV vaccine. Respondents who underwent HBV screening during pregnancy (OR = 2.06, 95% CI = 0.94 – 4.5), who had completed Hepatitis B vaccination had reduced odds ratios for perceiving risk factors for Hepatitis B Viral Infection (OR = 0.224, 95% CI = 0.94 – 4.5).

Conclusion

Pregnant women had a low-risk perception of HBV infection. The low level of risk perception can serve as a basis for developing preventive interventions aimed at educating and empowering expectant mothers in order to prevent HBV infection and its transmission to their children.