The effect of moringa oleifera leaf extract capsules from preconception to pregnancy on hemoglobin levels of three months postpartum mother

Abstract

Introduction: One health problem affecting a third of women of childbearing age is anemia. This study aims to determine the effect of Moringa leaf extract capsules from preconception to pregnancy on hemoglobin levels of three months postpartum mothers. Method: The study was conducted in the North Polongbangkeng Subdistrict, Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi Province. This analytical observational study employs a follow-up study design which is a continuation of the intervention of the administration of Moringa leaf extract capsules + Iron Folic Acid (IFA) and IFA from preconception to pregnancy. The population consisted of 60 three-month postpartum mothers, where 32 were taken as samples by purposive sampling technique. Hemoglobin levels were measured with the Easy touch GCHb tool. Data were analyzed through the chi-square test, Fisher's Exact Test, Repeated measure ANOVA, General linear model, and Independent sample t-test. Results: Characteristics of age, education, employment, income, ANC visits, and type of delivery of the two groups were homogeneous with p>0.05. Most subjects were aged 20-35 years, had secondary education, were unemployed, earned between IDR 1-2 million, had 4 ANC visits, and had a normal delivery.