Prevalence and knowledge about drug used during pregnancy Attending primary health care.

Abstract

Background: Medication use during pregnancy is a critical concern due to limited safety data and potential risks to the fetus. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of prescribed medication use and assess pregnant women’s knowledge about drug safety during pregnancy. Aims: To estimate the prevalence of prescribed medication use among pregnant women and to evaluate the level of knowledge and awareness regarding medication use during pregnancy. Methodology:  A cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at two primary healthcare centers in Najaf, Iraq, from April to July 2016. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric history, medication use, and knowledge about drug safety. Knowledge scores were categorized as good (>6 points), fair (3–6 points), or poor (<3 points). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests for associations. Results:  46.2% of participants were aged 25–34, 90% lived in urban areas, and 40.3% had primary education.  About 53.17% were in their second trimester, and 96.83% had planned pregnancies.  Nearly 86% reported using prescribed medications, with vitamins and minerals (82.17%) being the most common. Folic acid and Ferro folic were the most prescribed drugs (82.17%). FDA Categories: 95.54% of drugs were Category A, 67.83% Category B, and 14.53% Category C. No drugs from Categories D or X were reported.  Regarding knowledge: 67.83% had good knowledge, 31% had fair knowledge, and 1.17% had poor knowledge. Higher knowledge scores were associated with urban residence, higher education, and employment. Conclusion:  The prevalence of prescribed medication use was high (86%), with folic acid, antibiotics, and analgesics being the most commonly prescribed. 2. Gaps in knowledge about medication safety during pregnancy were evident, particularly among less educated and rural populations.  3. Physicians play a crucial role in educating pregnant women about medication risks and benefits.  Recommendations: Strengthen physician counseling during antenatal visits, particularly on the risks of medication use during the first trimester. 2. Increase public awareness through mass media and social platforms about medication safety during pregnancy.  3. Integrate education on medication risks into school and college curricula, targeting young women.