Status of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness of Pregnant Women and Recently Delivered Women in Rural Varanasi: Assessment of Current Scenario

Abstract

Background: Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness is practise of planning for events related to child birth and making necessary arrangements, so that timely and adequate medical care can be provided to the mother. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness of pregnant and recently delivered women in rural areas of Varanasi. Materials and Methods: A total of 633 pregnant and recently delivered women were interviewed using 11 components related to antenatal care and preparations done for child birth. Results: Out of all the respondents, less than half (46.4%) among Pregnant women and nearly the same proportion (45.1%) among recently delivered women were found 'Well Prepared.' Conclusion: The study revealed that there is a need to create awareness among the people about the importance of proper planning and making arrangements in advance to avert the danger to the life of mother and child.