Evaluation of knowledge of pregnant mothers about periodontal diseases and their relationship with adverse pregnancy outcomes

Periodontal disease (PD) is considered as a risk factor for preterm labor and adverse effects of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of pregnant mothers about PD and its relationship with adverse pregnancy outcomes.

This cross-sectional study was carried out in Tehran, 2018. 240 pregnant women who referred to the health centers of different areas of Tehran were randomly assigned to study. Knowledge of women about PD and its causes and their relationship with adverse pregnancy outcomes, along with demographic data were evaluated using a researcher-made questionnaire. P<0.05 was considered as significant.

The mean age of the participants was 28.16 ± 5.3 years. In general, the mean knowledge scores of pregnant women about the causes of PD were 2.53 ± 1.22 out of 6 (42.1%), the mean knowledge of pregnant women about the relationship between PD and adverse effects of pregnancy was 0.84±0.72 out of 2 (42%) and the mean score of attitudes was 1. 57 ± 0.84 out of 3 (52.3%). There was a positive relationship between mothers' education and medical sciences and their knowledge and attitude.

According to the results of this study, the knowledge and attitude of pregnant mothers regarding the relationship between PD and adverse pregnancy outcomes is not desirable, therefore it is suggested that oral hygiene and the relationship between oral and dental diseases with adverse pregnancy outcomes to be trained.