Knowledge and Attitude of Primigravida Mothers of Rural Area Regarding Nutritional Needs and Prevention of Iron Deficiency Anaemia during Pregnancy

Background: Pregnancy is an exciting yet physiologically demanding period as a woman nurtures a growing fetus. The physiological, biochemical, and hormonal changes impact nutritional needs and the body's efficiency in utilizing nutrients. Nutrition is the cornerstone of human health. Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitude of primigravida mothers regarding nutritional needs and prevention of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy and to determine the association between pretest knowledge and attitude levels with selected socio-demographic variables. Methodology: A quantitative approach with an exploratory descriptive survey design was used. A total of 50 primigravida mothers from selected primary health centers in Vijayapura district were selected using a convenient sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire and an attitude scale. Results: The study revealed that the mean knowledge score was 10, median 9, mode 7, with a standard deviation of 3.62, and a score range of 4-19. The majority (56%) of participants had a moderate level of knowledge, 30% had poor knowledge, and 14% had good knowledge. The mean attitude score was 31.44, median 31.50, mode 34, with a standard deviation of 5.74, and a score range of 20-44. The majority (74%) had a favorable attitude, 18% had a positive attitude, and 8% had a non-favorable attitude. A statistically significant association was found between levels of knowledge and sources of information at a 0.05 significance level. Conclusion: Education for antenatal mothers is essential to prevent nutritional deficiency disorders during pregnancy and ensure a positive pregnancy outcome.