Assessment of Pregnant Women's Knowledge and Attitude about Rhesus Incompatibility Prevention at Arakale Comprehensive Health Center, Akure

This study investigates the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women toward Rhesus (Rh) factor and its incompatibility prevention at the Comprehensive Health Center, Arakale, Akure. A descriptive quantitative research design was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires administered to a sample size of 105 pregnant women, calculated using Taro Yamane's formula. The data collected covered socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of Rh factor, attitudes towards Rh incompatibility prevention, and factors influencing Rh testing. Results showed that 72.4% of respondents had heard of the Rh factor, and 59% could define it accurately. However, only 35.2% knew their husband's Rh status. Additionally, 80% were aware that Rh incompatibility could be prevented, yet only 42% knew the preventive measures. Attitudes varied, with 49.5% considering Rh incompatibility testing important and 73.3% supporting maternal-fetal compatibility tests. Factors such as lack of knowledge (92.4%), cost of tests (90.5%), and fear of testing positive (95.2%) significantly influenced the prevention of Rh incompatibility. Chi-square analysis revealed a significant relationship between knowledge and attitudes towards Rh incompatibility prevention (p < 0.05). The findings underscore the need for enhanced educational interventions to improve awareness and preventive practices regarding Rh incompatibility among pregnant women in Akure.