A Study to Assess the Knowledge of Couples Regarding Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) and its Association with Selected Socio-Demographic Variables Among Antenatal Couples Attending Selected Health Centers, Greater Noida, UP

Background: Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) is an important component of safe motherhood. Advance planning for skilled birth attendance, place of delivery, transportation, financial resources, emergency care and recognition of danger signs can help families respond more appropriately when complications occur. Because decisions during pregnancy and emergencies may involve both partners, assessing couples provides a family-level perspective on preparedness. Objectives: To assess the level of knowledge regarding BPCR among antenatal couples attending selected health centers in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh; to identify areas of knowledge gaps; and to determine the association between BPCR knowledge and selected socio-demographic variables. Methods: A quantitative research approach with a descriptive cross-sectional design was used. The study included 100 antenatal couples selected according to the predetermined criteria. Data were collected using a structured socio-demographic pro-forma and a 30-item structured BPCR knowledge questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and the Chi-square test was used to examine associations between knowledge level and selected socio-demographic variables. Results: Among the 100 couples, 61 (61%) had good BPCR knowledge and 39 (39%) had moderate knowledge; none had poor knowledge. Educational status was significantly associated with BPCR knowledge (χ²=20.910, df=4, p=0.000330). No statistically significant association was found with age of the antenatal mother, age of the husband, religion, occupation, monthly family income, type of family, place of residence or gravida. Conclusion: The study indicates that most participants had good overall BPCR knowledge, although important gaps remained in emergency-related components. Couple-centered antenatal education, particularly on danger signs, emergency transportation, financial preparedness, blood-donor identification and timely referral, should be strengthened.