Utilization of antenatal routine diagnostic tests and its association with socio-economic status among pregnant women: A cross-sectional analysis

During pregnancy, a series of profound physiological changes occur in a woman's body to support the growth and development of the embryo and fetus. These changes affect multiple organ systems and involve significant hormonal, metabolic, and plasma volume alterations. Laboratory investigations are essential during this period, as they allow for the assessment of various biological parameters. These tests play a vital role not only in monitoring the normal physiological course of pregnancy but also in detecting potential pathological conditions early. The objective of the study is to evaluate the utilization of key antenatal tests and examine the association between socio-economic status and test uptake. The study was conducted among 700 pregnant women from Dehradun across all three trimesters using a structured questionnaire. Data were collected on their demographic profile, socio-economic status, and the uptake of routine antenatal blood investigations. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20 to assess the association between socio-economic status and test utilization. The findings revealed suboptimal utilization of several key antenatal diagnostic tests, with significant disparities based on socioeconomic status. The result shows the majority of respondents (84.3%) belonged to Hindu families, with a higher proportion living in nuclear households (71%). Educational status varied significantly, with higher education levels observed among women from upper socio-economic status (SES). Occupation patterns showed that most women were homemakers (83.7%), with formal employment more common in higher SES groups. SES was significantly associated with the uptake of key antenatal investigations, including haemoglobin (82.1% in lower SES to 96.9% in lower-middle SES), syphilis (VDRL), blood (RBC), gestational diabetes screening, and HIV (p<0.05). Women from higher SES and those attending private facilities had more comprehensive and up-to-date ANC records compared to their lower SES and government-facility counterparts. Barriers among lower SES groups included financial constraints, limited awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and longer waiting times, impacting the utilization of routine antenatal care services. These results highlight the urgent need to improve equitable access to antenatal diagnostic services, particularly among lower socio-economic groups.