Assessment of antenatal care knowledge and awareness among women living in Saudi Arabia

Background: A pregnant woman can access a variety of services through antenatal care, which should start as early as possible in the pregnancy. The study conducted to assess the knowledge and awareness about antenatal care among women in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done on 948 Saudi females and a pre-designed questionnaire was used. Data about participants' demographics, importance of antenatal care visit, time of the start antenatal care visits and various obstacles to using prenatal care services were gathered. Information about pregnancy in all trimesters, importance of follow- up, and from whom the pregnant lady can get the help and advice all were assessed. Results: Only 9.3 percent agreed that pregnant women can take medications without consultation, drink a lot of caffeine (22.6%), to raise cats during pregnancy (37.5%), to so violent sports during pregnancy (15.1%). About 66% stressed the importance of scheduling a prenatal appointment before the third month of pregnancy. The majority of participants definitely agreed that antenatal follow-up is beneficial to track the health of the mother and fetus. Lack of transportation, trouble making appointments, depending on family and friends for information, and missing an appointment were the most frequent obstacles to prenatal care. Conclusion: There is a need to increase Saudi women's awareness of prenatal care services and the hurdles that prevent them from using them.