Perception of Pregnant Women regarding Folic Acid Intake

Magdy Kamel Fahim, Nariman; Abdallah El-Sayed, Hend; Ouda Abd Elmonam, Somaya; Mostafa El-Banna, Hemmat

doi:10.21608/jnsbu.2023.280544

Perception of Pregnant Women regarding Folic Acid Intake

Document Type : Scientific peer reviewed journal

Authors

¹ Nursing Specialist at Bahtim Hospital

² Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing Faculty of Nursing -Benha University

³ Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing Faculty of Nursing- Benha University

10.21608/jnsbu.2023.280544

Abstract

Background: Folic acid plays a basic role in fetal growth, development and prevents fetal
malformations. Pregnant woman's perception regarding folic acid supplementation is critical. Aim:
This study aimed to assess perception of pregnant women regarding folic acid intake. Design: A
descriptive design was utilized to fulfill the aim of the current study. Setting: The study was
conducted at Obstetric and Gynecological Outpatient Clinic in Benha university Hospital. Sampling:
A Purposive sample of 240 pregnant women. Tools: Two tools were used: A structured interviewing
questionnaire which consisted of four parts: Demographic characteristics, obstetrics history,
knowledge of pregnant women about folic acid intake and Modified likert scale to assess attitude
towards folic acid intake. Results: More than two thirds of studied pregnant women had poor
knowledge regarding folic acid intake. Only less than one third had positive attitude regarding folic
acid intake. Conclusion: There was highly positive correlation between total knowledge and total
attitude score regarding folic acid intake among pregnant women. Recommendations: Application
of an educational program to improve perception of pregnant women regarding folic acid intake.
Containing education program for pregnant women regarding benefits and safety of folic acid
supplementation during pregnancy

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