Knowledge Regarding Postnatal Care among Pregnant Women at Dhaka Medical College Hospital

Background: Postnatal care (PNC) is a vital component of maternal and newborn health, covering the period from immediately after delivery up to six weeks postpartum. Adequate knowledge of postnatal care among pregnant women is essential to prevent maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Objectives:  the aims of the study to assess the level of Knowledge Regarding Postnatal Care among Pregnant Women at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Methods: A descriptive type of cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample 75 pregnant women selected through a convenient sampling technique. Data were collected by researchers using face to face interview with a structured questionnaire consisting of questions related to postnatal care of the mother and newborn. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and mean. Results: The mean age of respondents was 25.19 ± 4.68 years. Most were Muslim (86.67%), had secondary education (53.34%) and were housewives (92%). The majority of the respondents lived in joint families (62.67%) and were multigravida (70.67%). Most respondents were in the third trimester (68%) and 42.67% had more than four ANC visits. Nearly half (48%) had not used contraception, among users, oral contraceptive pills were most common (24%). Overall, 38.67% of respondents had good knowledge, 22.67% had average knowledge, 14.66% had poor knowledge and only 1.33% demonstrated excellent knowledge regarding postnatal care. While knowledge was relatively better in areas such as newborn care, vaccination and personal hygiene, notable gaps were identified in recommended postnatal visits, breastfeeding practices and family planning methods. Conclusion and Recommendation: The study concludes that strengthening health education during antenatal visits and implementing targeted educational interventions are essential to improve postnatal care knowledge and to reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality in Bangladesh.