Determinants of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness Among Pregnant Women in Savelugu Municipality, Northern Region, Ghana

Background Despite the efforts made by Government, little progress is being made concerning rates of maternal morbidity, and mortality in Ghana and an international target is yet to be achieved. Pregnancy-related complications are considered among the major causes of death in women of reproductive age. The aim of the present study was to assess the determinants of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPACR) among pregnant women in Savelugu municipality, Northern Region, Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 458 pregnant women receiving antenatal care from Savelugu municipal clinic. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using the safe motherhood questionnaire. The data were analysed using SPSS. BPACR practice index was defined as preparation for birth and practice of at least five of the BPACR components. Chi-square and logistic regression analysis were used to identify the independent determinants of BPACR practice. Results The mean age of the pregnant women was 27.5 [95% confidence interval = 27.04–27.86]. Majority of them were married (95.4%) and most of them (55.5%) often discussed BPACR with their husbands. The prevalence of BPACR practice was 58.7%. No formal education [AOR 0.22, 95% C.I (0.121–0.393)] and never discussed BPACR with husband [AOR 0.48, 95% C.I (0.255, 0.915)] were associated with decreased odds of BPACR practice, whereas the highest age group of women [AOR 2.60, 95% C.I (1.580, 4.295)], highest gestational age in weeks [AOR 4.16, 95% C.I (1.569, 11.028)], multiparity [AOR 1.89, 95% C.I (1.294, 2.754)], and knowledge of danger signs[AOR 4.11, 95% C.I (2.221, 7.612)] were associated with increased odds of BPACR Conclusions In this study population, the prevalence of BPACR was relatively high and was associated with respondents’ age group (years), gestational age (weeks), educational level, parity, knowledge of key complication signs and how often discussion of BPACR was held with husbands. Interventions to improve BPACR should intensify BPACR education at antenatal clinics.