Perceptions and Predictive Factors of Jordanian Pregnant Women toward COVID-19 Vaccination

Abstract

Introduction Vaccination is an effective strategy for preventing COVID-19 infection and its complications, particularly among pregnant women. This study aimed to assess the acceptability and perceptions of Jordanian pregnant women toward COVID-19 vaccination, as well as compare the perceptions of women who received the vaccine with those who did not, and examine the predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among pregnant women. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional correlational design was employed in the antenatal clinics of two major hospitals in Irbid, North Jordan. A convenience sample of 300 Jordanian pregnant women and a self-reported questionnaire were employed in the period between November 2022 and January 2023. Results The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 software. Descriptive statistics revealed that 58.6% of women received two COVID-19 vaccine doses before pregnancy, but only 29% were willing to take it if given the choice. Approximately 47% believed that a previous infection gave them immunity, and 73% felt that strict precautions made vaccination unnecessary. Only 28% agreed that vaccination reduces the chance of getting COVID-19 or its complications. A t-test showed vaccinated women perceived COVID-19 as more severe (p=0.04). Logistic regression analysis revealed that working women and those with a college education were significantly more likely to be vaccinated than unemployed or less educated women (p=0.008 and p=0.005, respectively). Discussion The findings emphasized the importance of understanding pregnant women's perspectives on COVID-19 immunization to facilitate informed decision-making and improve public health outcomes. Conclusion Healthcare providers should actively implement targeted outreach programs for women from lower socio-economic status to improve awareness of COVID-19 risks and increase vaccination rates.