Calcium Supplementation in Pregnancy: Determinants in a Low-Resource Setting

What is it about?

This study investigates factors influencing calcium supplementation during pregnancy in a low-resource setting. The proportion of women who reported taking calcium supplements was 72.62 [69.85-75.22]%, with only 12% taking supplements throughout pregnancy. The main reasons for taking calcium supplements were foetal growth and development (37.12%) and prevention of cramps (38.86%). Factors significantly associated with higher odds of taking calcium supplements were early initiation of antenatal care (before 4 months), having more than 3 antenatal visits, and partner reminder/support on the necessity of taking supplements. Only 2.84% of women understood that calcium supplementation prevents hypertensive diseases in pregnancy.

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Why is it important?

This study is important because it identifies factors that influence calcium supplementation during pregnancy in a low-resource setting. By understanding the factors associated with calcium supplementation, healthcare providers can develop targeted interventions to improve adherence and ensure better maternal and fetal outcomes. Key Takeaways: 1. The proportion of women who reported taking any calcium supplements in pregnancy was 72.62 [69.85-75.22]%. 2. Only 12% of calcium-supplemented women took calcium supplements throughout pregnancy, while a majority (50%) took calcium supplements just for 4-5 months. 3. Women believe that taking calcium supplements is more for fetal growth and development (37.12%) and prevention of cramps (38.86%), than for prevention of hypertensive diseases in pregnancy. 4. Factors associated with higher odds of taking any calcium supplements in pregnancy include early initiation of antenatal care (before 4 months), having more than 3 antenatal visits during pregnancy, and partner reminder or support on the necessity of taking supplements in pregnancy. 5. Only 47% of the calcium supplemented women took at least 1000mg of elemental calcium daily during supplementation, while the rest took less than 1000mg.