Title

KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES IN RELATION TO PRENATAL CARE COMPLIANCE AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN RURAL AREAS

Author(s)

CARDENAS, REU JHAMES

DACUYA, STEFAN

GOJO, JAN MARIO

IGNACIO, SILMER NOEL

Affiliation

Misamis University

Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Contributor

Tojino, Amie G.

Taghoy, Sammy B.

Santos, Susan N.

Revelo, Judy Jane S.

Year

2025

Abstract

Prenatal care is crucial for maternal and fetal health, yet compliance remains low in rural areas despite adequate knowledge and positive attitudes. This study explored the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and prenatal care compliance among pregnant women in selected barangays of Tangub City, Misamis Occidental, Philippines. Using a descriptive correlational design and quota sampling, 100 pregnant women were included. Data were collected through researcher-made questionnaires assessing knowledge, attitudes, and compliance with prenatal care. The responses were tabulated and analyzed using mean and standard deviation, while SPSS was employed for statistical accuracy. Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient (Pearson’s r) was used to examine the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and prenatal care compliance. Results showed that most participants had a high level of knowledge regarding prenatal care and maintained positive attitudes toward its importance. Respondents also demonstrated high levels of adherence to recommended prenatal care practices. Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between knowledge of prenatal care and compliance, indicating that greater understanding is associated with higher adherence. Similarly, a significant relationship was found between positive attitudes and prenatal care compliance. These findings suggest that while knowledge and attitudes are strong, structural and logistical barriers may still affect compliance in rural areas. It is recommended that local government units and health departments work together to address obstacles such as transportation difficulties, distance to health facilities, and healthcare costs. Expanding barangay health center coverage and introducing transportation support or mobile clinic services can further improve prenatal care access and adherence, ultimately promoting better maternal and fetal health outcomes in rural communities.

Keywords

compliance, descriptive correlational design, prenatal care, significant relationship