PREDICTING FACTORS OF POSTPARTUM ANEMIA AMONG POSTPARTUM MOTHERS AT NYANGABWE REFERRAL HOSPITAL, FRANCISTOWN, BOTSWANA

Abstract

Postpartum anemia (PPA) is a significant maternal health issue, affecting up to 50.0% of women in developed countries and 80.0% in developing countries. Objective: This study aims to explore the prevalence and the predicting factors of PPA in postpartum mothers from Nyangabwe Referral Hospital, Francistown, Botswana. The predicting factors indicated biological factors (HIV positive status), psychological factors (stress) and social factors (Dietary intake of food rich in iron, adherence to Iron Folic Acid (IFA) supplements, food taboos and pica).

Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 385 postpartum mothers with a convenience sampling technique during February to March 2024. The instruments used were a pre-tested researcher designed structured questionnaire and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The PSS questionnaire had a Cronbach's alpha of.0.77. Descriptive analysis was done using means, frequency, and proportions. Chi-square test was used to determine the relationship between independent and dependent variables. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of PPA.

Results: The overall prevalence of PPA was estimated at 51.4% (95% CI: 46.5 - 56.4). Mothers who had HIV-positive status (AOR=4.57, 95% CI: 2.41 - 8.67), poor adherence to IFA supplements (AOR=2.18, 95% CI: 1.29 - 3.68), and practiced PICA during pregnancy (AOR= 4.39, 95% CI: 2.67 - 7.23) could statistically predict PPA.

Conclusion: The prevalence of PPA was about a half the samples and HIV positive, poor adherence to IFA, and practice Pica were significant predicting factors of PPA among women in Botswana. Suggesting interventions to reduce HIV infection in childbearing women, encouraging the importance of adhering to IFA supplements, and promoting nutritional health education to prevent pica practices during pregnancy and postpartum periods hence prevent consequences of PPA.

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