Knowledge and Understanding of Obstetric Alarming Signs and Symptoms Among Pregnant Women at Maternity and Children Hospital in Al Ahsa: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: In 2020, ~800 women died daily worldwide from preventable pregnancy-related causes, though Saudi Arabia’s maternal mortality is relatively low. In Saudi society, consanguinity and early marriage may increase pregnancy risks. Research indicates improved institutional delivery when women know the danger signs. This study in Al-Ahsa investigates pregnant women’s awareness, emphasizing early detection for effective obstetric care. WHO underscores this critical need.

Methodology: It is a cross-sectional study conducted in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, using convenience sampling. Participants were interviewed via structured questionnaires addressing demographics, comorbidities, and obstetric danger signs. The data is processed in Excel and examined with IBM SPSS 29.0.0

Results: A total of 400 pregnant women were assessed. Most were aged 25–34 years (175, 43.8%), with 186 (46.5%) in the third trimester, and 324 (81.0%) reporting no underlying medical conditions. Nevertheless, 102 (25.5%) experienced serious health problems, most commonly vaginal bleeding (24, 32.4%). While 380 (95.0%) attended antenatal clinics regularly, 286 (71.5%) did not seek help for severe symptoms. Age (>40 vs. 18–24, p<0.001), gravidity (p=0.002), and parity (p=0.002) correlated with higher knowledge scores. Women with comorbidities (4.41 ± 2.12, p<0.001) scored significantly higher. Logistic regression revealed age (p=0.003) and medical conditions (p=0.001) as predictors for better knowledge, with an odds ratio of 1.553 and 2.477, respectively. Education and gestational weeks were not significant (p>0.05).

Conclusion: This study shows that older age, higher gravidity, parity, and the presence of comorbidities significantly enhance obstetric danger sign awareness. Despite high antenatal attendance, gaps remain among younger and healthier women. Targeted interventions are necessary to bolster education and encourage prompt care-seeking behaviors. Research should explore cultural norms impacting knowledge.KEYWORDS: Saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, pygeum africanum, phytotherapy, benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH 2.