Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Pregnant Women Regarding Intake of Supplements (Folic Acid, Iron, Zinc and Calcium) During Pregnancy Periods, 2016

It is believed that during pregnancy, it is necessary to have a proper balanced diet to ensure sufficient energy intake for adequate growth of fetus without drawing on mother’s own tissues to maintain her pregnancy. A woman who has been well nourished before conception, begins her pregnancy with reserve of nutrients, so that the needs of fetus can be met without affecting her health. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of pregnant regarding intake of supplements during pregnancy periods in 2016.

The current research was an analytical and descriptive study. This cross-sectional study was carried out in 2016. The subjects were 280 pregnant women that selected via random cluster sampling method, among whom referred to the health care centers in Zabol city. Data collected using a questionnaire including four parts.

The mean age of pregnant women was 26.1 ± 5.6 years. The knowledge, attitude and practice of pregnant women regarding use of supplement were in medium level (82.3%, 88.8%, and 83.8% respectively). Analysis of data showed a significant relationship between knowledge and attitude of pregnant women about using of supplements during pregnancy periods (p value < 0.05).

Finding showed the knowledge, attitude and practice of pregnant women were in medium levels. However, there is an urgent need to educate and practice about using supplements during pregnancy periods.