Publication:

Assessment of awareness regarding preconceptional care among women aged 18-25 years

Background Preconception care (PCC) is a vital component of preventive reproductive healthcare that aims to optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes, yet awareness remains inadequate among young women in developing countries. This study aimed to assess awareness regarding preconception care among women aged 18–25 years and to identify socio-demographic factors influencing awareness.

Methods This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 women aged 18–25 years attending the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chirayu Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal. A predesigned, structured, and pretested questionnaire was administered to assess knowledge, awareness, and practices regarding preconception care. Awareness was scored and categorized as good, moderate, or poor. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results Only 38% of participants had heard of preconception care. Overall, 26% demonstrated good awareness, 42% moderate awareness, and 32% poor awareness. Awareness regarding folic acid supplementation (45%), vaccination (39%), and chronic disease control (48%) was suboptimal. Higher education, urban residence, and prior healthcare exposure were significantly associated with better awareness (p<0.05).

Conclusions Awareness regarding preconception care among young women remains inadequate. Strengthening targeted education and integrating preconception counseling into routine healthcare services are essential to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.