Factors affecting the adherence to iron and folic acid supplementation among pregnant women in southern Ethiopia

Introduction. Anemia is a global public health problem affecting both developing and developed countries. Worldwide, anemia affects 1.62 billion people, 41.8% of whom are pregnant women. Pregnant women who do not adhere to iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation are at greater risk of anemia due to iron deficiency, technically termed iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Methods. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 24 to May 23, 2020. A total of 351 participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique, and a pretested questionnaire was administered to collect the data. Data were entered, cleaned, and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the factors associated with adherence to IFA supplementation. Variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results. The adherence to IFA supplements was only 46.2%. Maternal educational status [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 4.51; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.80–11.31], counseling about the need for IFA supplements [AOR 2.19; 95% CI: 1.14–4.20], and the number of pills provided per visit [AOR 2.11; 95% CI: 1.28–3.46] were significantly associated with adherence. Conclusions. The adherence rate to IFA supplements among study participants was inadequate in Arba Minch. Therefore, improving maternal education, providing counseling about IFA supplementation, and ensuring an adequate number of tablets during antenatal visits are strongly recommended, along with awareness and education programs.