Assessing the Relationship Between the Dietary Pattern, Oral Hygiene and Self-Reported Gingival Bleeding in Pregnant Women in Ondo, Southwest Nigeria

Background: Pregnancy-related hormonal changes increase the risk of gingival inflammation and bleeding. Poor oral hygiene and dietary habits, such as frequent intake of sugary foods, may worsen this risk. Understanding the relationship between diet, oral hygiene, and gingival health in pregnant women is essential for improving prenatal care. This study aimed to assess dietary patterns, oral hygiene practices, and self-reported gingival bleeding among pregnant women attending the Mother and Child Hospital, Ondo, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over four months among 216 pregnant women at the Mother & Child Clinic, University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Ondo, Southwest Nigeria. A structured, self-administered questionnaire collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, oral hygiene habits, perceived oral health conditions, and dietary patterns. Clinical oral examinations were conducted using the Oral Hygiene Index. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Most participants (79.2%) were in their second or third trimester. Although 83.3% used toothbrushes and 52.3% brushed twice daily, 39.8% had poor oral hygiene, and 33.3% reported gingival bleeding. Despite 76.4% awareness of dental services, 53.2% had never visited a dentist. Most participants frequently consumed fruits (88.9%), vegetables (84.8%), and animal proteins (84.7%), while 43.0% consumed sugary drinks regularly. No significant association was found between dietary habits and gingival bleeding. Conclusion: The study revealed a clear awareness–behavior gap: good knowledge of oral health did not translate into optimal hygiene practices or dental visits. Poor oral hygiene remained common, and gingival bleeding was prevalent. Although most participants had healthy diets, sugary drink intake was still high. Diet alone was not protective against gingival bleeding. Promoting effective oral hygiene and integrating dental care into prenatal programs is recommended.