A Research Thesis Submitted to the Department of Health Education and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health and Medical Sciences, Jimma University; in Partial Fulfillment for the Requirements of Degree of Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Education and Health Promotion

Abstract

Background: Majority of maternal deaths occur during labour and delivery. Obstetric related complications cannot be reliably predicted. Hence, it is necessary to design strategies to overcome when such problem arise. To this end, one of the strategies is birth preparedness practice to get early services when problem may arise. Objective: This study was conducted to assess birth preparedness practice and associated factors among pregnant women in Ana lemmo District, hadiya zone, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross sectional study design was conducted in March 2015, on five hundred fifty two (552) pregnant women in Ana lemmo District. Simple random sampling method was used to select the required number of sample. Pretested structured questionnaire was used to collect data using a face-to-face interview. Data was entered into EpiData 3.1 and Analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Data Analysis statistical tools including descriptive statistics, bivariate and multiple logistic regression Analysis was done to identify factors significantly associated with birth preparedness practice. Result: A total of 552 pregnant women involved in the study. Taking into account identifying place of delivery, means of transportation and saving money, about 32% of the respondents were prepared for birth. Preparation for birth was higher among literate mothers (AOR= 0.266, 95% CI (.113, .629)), married women (AOR= 0.148, 95% CI (.045, .494)), those who attended ANC sessions ((AOR= 3.081, 95% CI (1.13, 8.38)) and those who are pregnant for the first time. Conclusion and recommendation The study revealed low magnitude of birth preparedness practice in the study area. Strengthening ANC sessions and Community education about preparation for birth are important to improve birth preparedness practice.