Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of Female Undergraduate towards Preconception Care in Federal University of Technology Akure, Ondo State

Abstract

Background: According to WHO, one of the most important components of health care for women in reproductive age is preconception care which is the missing and neglected link in the continuum of maternal care aimed at improving pregnancy outcome, parturition and children’s health. Preconception cares are interventions that are provided to women or couples prior to conception. Aim: This study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and perception of female students towards preconception care at Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) Ondo State. Methodology: Purposive sampling Technique together with proportionate sampling technique was utilized and sample size of 240 respondents were selected using standard formula. A pretest method was used to test the internal consistency among students of University of Medical Sciences, Ondo state. Cronbach Alpha score of 0.7 was derived. Results: This present study revealed that only 49.1% showed good knowledge, with healthcare providers (34.7%) as the main source. Correct understanding of preconception care (87.9%) was noted, but misconceptions persisted (e.g., 29.2% thought it's for pregnancy). Positive attitudes prevailed (53.7%), favoring government hospitals (60.4%). Perception was negative (61.9%), though participants recognized preconception care's necessity (67.9%) and timing (51.7%). Folic acid consumption and effects of TT vaccination varied. Smoking (50.4%) and alcohol's (49.6%) impact on pregnancy were acknowledged. Two hypotheses revealed no significant age- knowledge or knowledge-attitude relationship. Conclusion: Thorough and complete preconception care planning can prevent unwanted pregnancies and unsafe abortions, thus decreasing maternal ill- health and deaths. Hence, development of preconception health care clinics within maternal child health and family planning services is recommended.