Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gorgan Congenital Malformations Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Golestan, Iran.
2
B.Sc. of Midwifery, Gorgan Congenital Malformations Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Golestan, Iran.
3
Professor, Department of Anatomy, Gorgan Congenital Malformations Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Golestan, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction: Neural tube defect (NTDs) is one of the most common types of birth defects. The correct usage of 1 mg of folic acid before fertilization and first month of pregnancy may prevent the neonatal neural tube defects. One of the most important factors in correct usage of this supplement is the level of knowledge and attitude of women in child bearing age about its preventive effects. The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge-level and usage of folic acid in pregnancy period in rural nulliparous women in Golestan province.
Methods: This community-based descriptive study was held on 723 nulliparous women in rural area of Golestan province, who referred to health centers for routine antenatal care from June to November of 2008. The information was gathered through interviewing and completing questionnaires which included demographic characteristic, pregnancy planning, knowledge and use of folic acid in prevention of NTDs. Collected data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software version 11.5. In order to determine the relationship between education-level and folic acid consumption, logistic regression was applied. P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Of 723 pregnant women, 97.1% have heard the name of folic acid, 34.1% of them were aware of the effective role of folic acid in prevention of NTDs, but only 20.6% of women have used folic acid before fertilization and first month of pregnancy period. Personnel in rural health centers were the sole information source of 68.1% women about taking folic acid. Based on univarient analysis, awareness and intake of folic acid was higher in women with high school and university level of education (P<0.001).
Conclusion: This study showed that the rural women's awareness about folic acid and its consumption is less than expectations.
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