Determinants of pregnant women’s knowledge about antenatal care and compliance with pregnancy check-ups at Poasia Health Center

Overview: This study investigates the relationship between knowledge and attitudes about Antenatal Care (ANC) and the completeness of ANC visits among pregnant women in the service area of Poasia Health Center, Kendari City. It aims to identify factors influencing adherence to the recommended ANC schedule, a crucial aspect of maternal and fetal health.

Body of Knowledge: Guided by Green and Kreuter’s health behavior theory and Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior, this study underscores knowledge and attitudes as key predisposing factors in shaping health behaviors. Knowledge equips individuals with the information necessary for informed decision-making, while attitudes influence the intention to act. Despite their importance, external factors such as perceived barriers, social support, and behavioral control also play a role in determining health behavior outcomes.

Methods: The study used a descriptive-analytic design with a cross-sectional approach. Fifty respondents were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected and analyzed using the Chi-Square test to explore the relationship between the variables of knowledge, attitudes, and ANC visit completeness. This method facilitated a better understanding of how these factors interact to influence health behaviors.

Results: The results showed a significant relationship between knowledge and the completeness of ANC visits (p = 0.012), with respondents possessing good knowledge more likely to complete ANC visits. Conversely, no significant relationship was found between attitudes and ANC visits (p = 0.073), suggesting that positive attitudes alone are insufficient to ensure adherence.

Recommendation: To improve ANC adherence, interventions should include comprehensive education to enhance knowledge, strengthened family and community support systems, and the use of technology-based reminders. Health centers should conduct regular program evaluations and implement targeted strategies to address barriers, emphasizing the risks of incomplete ANC visits to ensure maternal and fetal health.