Assessing Maternal Knowledge of Stillbirth and Its Influence on Antenatal Care Practices in Reducing Stillbirth Risk

Objectives: Stillbirth remains a critical public health issue in South Africa, especially in rural areas like the Lejweleputswa district, where maternal and neonatal outcomes are compromised by systemic challenges. This study investigates the influence of maternal knowledge of stillbirth on antenatal care (ANC) practices and explores how this relationship affects infant outcomes. Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods design was adopted. Quantitative data were collected from 263 mothers using structured questionnaires, while qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 20 healthcare workers across public health facilities. Results: Results showed that 58% of respondents had limited knowledge of stillbirth causes and risk factors, and only 35% recognized early ANC as a preventive measure. Significant positive correlations were found between stillbirth knowledge and ANC practices (R = 0.571, R² = 0.325, P < 0.001), ANC practices and maternal healthcare quality (R = 0.635, R² = 0.403, P < 0.001), and infant outcomes (R = 0.605, R² = 0.366, P < 0.001). Conclusions: Qualitative findings supported these results, with healthcare providers citing staffing shortages, rushed consultations, and weak referral systems as barriers to quality care. The study highlights the need for provider-led maternal health education and systemic improvements in ANC delivery. Targeted interventions strengthening health education and infrastructure can significantly reduce perinatal mortality in under-resourced regions.