AWARENESS OF PRE-ECLAMPSIA AND ECLAMPSIA AMONG PREGNANT MOTHERS ATTENDING ANTENATAL CARE AT LUBAGA HOSPITAL KAMPALA DISTRICT A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background

Preeclampsia (PE) is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide and it occurs in women with first or multiple pregnancies during the second or third trimester and is characterized by hypertension with either proteinuria, pulmonary edema, cerebral or visual symptoms, and a high blood pressure.

Methodology

The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design because data collection and management were within a short period on a sample of a large population at a specific time. Analysis of data was done using Microsoft Excel 2013 and data was presented in the form of tables, figures, and pie charts.

Results

Nearly half (43%) of the respondents were between 25-29 years with the minority (7%) being above 40 years. 47% of the women lacked knowledge of what Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia are. 87% had adequate knowledge of obesity as a predisposing factor to Pre-eclampsia/eclampsia. The predisposing factors mentioned were Poor nutritional status (7%), and the age of the mother (33%) which reflects inadequate knowledge of the predisposing factors, 60% of the Pregnant Mothers knew only Headache as an effect of PE/E after delivery which indicated inadequate knowledge on the effects of PE/E after delivery. 

Conclusion

The majority of respondents lacked adequate Knowledge of the other Predisposing Factors to Pre-Eclampsia and Eclampsia. However, knowledge of Visual disturbances, premature delivery, and death of a baby as effects of PE/E after delivery was low as most respondents knew only Headache as an effect of PE/E after delivery. 

Recommendations

The hospital should empower the health workers in supportive communication so that they can help the pregnant women be aware of the seriousness of the condition, the importance of regular checks at a health facility, and the symptoms of worsening pre-eclampsia.