Assessment of birth preparedness and complication readiness among pregnant women attending Primary Health Care Centres in Edo State, Nigeria

Background: The principle and practice of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR) in resource-poor settings have the potential of reducing maternal, and neonatal morbidity and mortality rates. Aim: The aim was to assess BP/CR among pregnant women attending Antenatal care in Primary Health Care Centres in Oredo Local Government Area (LGA) in Benin City, Edo State. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study carried out among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Primary Health Centres in Oredo LGA. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social sciences (SPSS) Version 16.0. Descriptive data were presented in frequency tables. Statistical testing using Chi-square was carried out with level of significance set as P Results: One hundred and fourteen pregnant women (49.6%) were aware of at least one danger sign associated with pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, while 201 women (87.4%) had identified a skilled birth attendant. Twenty-six (11.3%) had saved money for obstetric care, and 143 (62.2%) had purchased or made plans to purchase birth supplies. Two hundred and one (87.4%) respondents were found to be well-prepared for the birth. Having a tertiary education and being married were factors found to be significantly associated with BP. Conclusion: Majority of the women had BP/CR in place. However, emphasis should be placed on identifying target groups and practice gaps, for intensified health education.