Antenatal blood donation: Pregnant mothers' attitude, fears and preferences

Up to 150,000 pregnancy-related deaths could be avoided each year through access to safe blood. Antenatal blood donation, which will increase access to safe blood, is one of the ways to reduce maternal mortality in this environment. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, fears and preferences of pregnant mothers regarding antenatal blood donation. The study was carried out in Kwara State Specialist Hospital (KSSH) Sobi. All (400) consenting pregnant women accessing ANC services at the HF were recruited. Data was collected using pretested semistructured interviewer administered questionnaire. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 17.0. A P- value < 0.05 was considered significant at 95% confidence level. The age range of the respondents is between 16 to 42 years, with a mean age of 27.81± 5.21. More than half (58.5%) of the respondents had the knowledge that blood transfusion may be required for pregnant women. Over 80% of the respondents think that the donor of blood for pregnant woman could be the spouse, the siblings, parents, in-laws or paid donor However, majority (62.5%) would prefer blood transfusion from a family member. Risk of contracting infection was most feared among the respondents (52.5%). There is good awareness among the study population on the possible need for blood transfusion during pregnancy and childbirth but great misconception and concerns over receiving blood transfusion still persists. There is need for continuing public education to clear misconceptions and baseless concerns over receiving blood transfusion. Key words: pregnant mothers, attitude, antenatal blood donation, Ilorin