“A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE REGARDING EARLY IDENTIFICATION OF HIGH RISK PREGNANCY AMONG WOMEN RESIDING IN SELECTED AREAS OF PUNE CITY.”

Abstract

Introduction: High-risk pregnancy is a term used to define pregnancies where the mother, the fetus, or both are at a heightened risk of experiencing complications that may adversely affect their health. Early identification of high-risk pregnancies is crucial in ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. The need for this study arises from the necessity of understanding the early indicators of high-risk pregnancies, which can include factors such as maternal age, pre-existing health conditions, medical history, lifestyle habits, and pregnancy circumstances such as multiple gestations or those resulting from assisted reproductive technologies.Maternal age is a significant factor in classifying a pregnancy as high risk. Teenage mothers under 18 years and women above 35 years face an increased likelihood of complications. Younger mothers may experience preterm births and low birth weight due to physiological and socioeconomic challenges. On the other hand, advanced maternal age is associated with gestational diabetes, chromosomal abnormalities, and hypertension. Other key risk factors include medical history and existing health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders.

PURPOSE

To Assess the knowledge regarding early identification of high risk pregnancy. Objectives Of The Study

• To assess the knowledge regarding early identification of high risk pregnancy among women
• To asociate the finding with demographic variables

Material And Method

The research adopted a non-experimental, descriptive design, using a structured questionnaire as the primary data collection tool. The sample comprised 200 women selected through non- probability purposive sampling. Data were collected between June 1 and June 29, 2024, after obtaining appropriate permissions. The structured questionnaire was designed to gather demographic information and assess participants' knowledge. The tool underwent content validation and reliability testing, yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.8116, confirming its consistency.

RESULT

The findings indicated that 74.5% of participants had average knowledge, 23.5% exhibited good knowledge, and only 2% demonstrated poor understanding. Knowledge scores were analyzed in relation to demographic factors like age, occupation, education, family income, and marital status. Results revealed a significant association between marital status and knowledge levels, while no significant association was found with other demographic variables.