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Assessment of Pregnant Women's Knowledge and Practices Regarding Warning Signs of Pregnancy in Baghdad
Published: 2026-05-31
Abstract
Background:Pregnancy warning signs are important indicators of maternal and fetal complications. Early recognition of these signs and seeking appropriate medical care can reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Objective:This study aimed to assess pregnant women’s knowledge and practices regarding warning signs of pregnancy attending primary healthcare centers in Baghdad, Iraq. Methedology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 pregnant women attending primary healthcare centers in Baghdad governorate from September 2025 to April 2026. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire consisting of socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, source of information, and practices regarding warning signs of pregnancy. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 2019. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used, and a p-value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Most participants were aged 20–29 years (49.7%), had secondary education (45.3%), and were housewives (70.6%). High awareness was observed for warning signs such as vaginal bleeding or leakage of fluid (89.2%) and reduced fetal movement (82.1%). However, lower awareness was found for jaundice (43.0%), decreased urine output (40.1%), and severe itching (38.5%). The overall knowledge level was moderate among 45.8% of participants, while 29.2% had good knowledge. Most mothers (77.6%) reported immediately going to the hospital when warning signs appeared. Statistically Significance found among knowledge level, age of participants, educational level, and antenatal care visits (p≤0.05). Conclusions: Pregnant women exhibit an acceptable knowledge level with good emergency response practices to warning signs of pregnancy. Both educational level and attendance at antenatal care are significantly associated with maternal knowledge. Mothers' education programs are recommended to increase awareness.
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References
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