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This study investigates factors affecting birth preparedness and complication readiness among postpartum women in Eastern Uganda.

June 8, 2026Open Access

Determinants of birth preparedness and complication readiness among postpartum women in Bugembe, Jinja City, Eastern Uganda: a community-based cross-sectional study

Key Points

This study investigates factors affecting birth preparedness and complication readiness among postpartum women in Eastern Uganda.
Conducted a community-based cross-sectional study in Bugembe, Eastern Uganda from August to September 2022.
Included 228 postpartum women who gave birth within the last 12 months, using multistage random sampling.
Data collected through a validated structured questionnaire, assessing five components of birth preparedness.
Only 33.8% of women were classified as 'well-prepared' for childbirth.
Good BPCR was significantly associated with having secondary or tertiary education (aOR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.01-4.65).
Poor maternal health knowledge was linked to lower BPCR (aOR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.10-0.78).

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) is vital for reducing maternal deaths by promoting proactive planning for safe childbirth and medical emergency management. Despite its importance in improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes, the field is still under-explored in Uganda. This study investigates factors associated with BPCR among postpartum women in Eastern Uganda, where maternal mortality remains high. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Bugembe town council, Jinja City, Eastern Uganda, from August to September 2022. The study included 228 postpartum women who had given birth within the last 12 months. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select participants from five villages. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire. The primary outcome was BPCR, assessed through five key components: (1) identifying a health facility for delivery, (2) identifying a skilled birth attendant, (3) arranging transport, (4) setting aside funds, and (5) identifying a blood donor. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were performed to determine factors associated with good BPCR (well-prepared). RESULTS: The median age of participants was 27 years (Interquartile Range IQR: 23-31). Most were married (82.4%) and completed up to secondary education (49.6%). Only 33.8% of women were deemed 'well-prepared' for birth and relevant potential complications. The most prioritized component of BPCR was saving funds for delivery (73.7%). A small proportion of women had good knowledge of danger signs during pregnancy (29.8%, 95% CI: 24.0% - 36.2%) and childbirth (10.1%, 95% CI: 6.5% - 14.8%). Good BPCR was associated with having secondary or tertiary education (aOR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.01-4.65) and poor maternal health knowledge (aOR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.10-0.78). CONCLUSION: The study revealed low levels of BPCR and poor knowledge of danger signs during pregnancy and childbirth among post-partum women in Eastern Uganda. BPCR practices should be strengthened through targeted maternal health education and antenatal care interventions.

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Cite This Study

Kanyike et al. (Sat,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a265b7cad53cfb9357c5143 https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-026-09416-3

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