A qualitative assessment of barriers to iron and folic acid supplementation among pregnant women in Botswana.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Antenatal iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation remains an effective strategy in the prevention of maternal anemia and low birthweight and is universally recommended by WHO. However, uptake of IFA has varied globally due to challenges with acceptability, supply and distribution, counselling and knowledge, and access to health services. In Botswana, nearly one-third of pregnant women engaged in antenatal care do not receive IFA, despite it being standard of care. The objectives of this study were to assess knowledge of and barriers and facilitators to IFA supplementation before and during pregnancy.

Methods

We conducted qualitative interviews with two key stakeholder groups at two different levels-the individual level (pregnant women) and the service delivery l

SUBMITTER: Kebaabetswe P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11616331 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature