Determinants of post-partum anaemia – a cross sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Anaemia in the postpartum period is a common public health problem, but there is a paucity of studies regarding anaemia in the postnatal period. Prevention and treatment of anaemia in post-natal women is essential in reducing maternal mortality and morbidity, improving quality of life, as well as improving work performance.

Objectives: To determine the correlates of anaemia at the post-partum period in Mariakani sub-county hospital.

Methods: Cross sectional study, a total of three hundred and twenty three women attending mother and child health clinic at the sixth week post-partum at Mariakani sub-county hospital were recruited into the study. Their management for anaemia during antenatal period was assessed using prenatal records followed by a haemoglobin estimation using the prick method; those found to be anaemic by World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria had further investigations done to determine the cause.

Results: The duration of haematinic use and repeated Intermittent Preventive Therapy (IPT) administration during pregnancy were protective for post-natal anaemia. Maternal education, place of delivery, complications during pregnancy or delivery and late ANC booking were significantly associated with post-natal anaemia.

Conclusion and recommendation: Management of anaemia at the antenatal period is the most crucial strategy in combating post-natal anaemia, and this is highly recommended in all levels of health care system. In addition promoting facility delivery and empowering women through formal education should form part of the management in the preventive strategies to combat anaemia.