An evaluation of knowledge and performance of pregnant women in Isfahan regarding common oral lesions during pregnancy

Abstract

Background. Most common oral lesions during pregnancy are subjected to oral hygiene and gaining knowledge about them can improve oral health during this period. Thus, this study aimed to assess the knowledge of pregnant women in Isfahan about common oral lesions. Methods. This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study included 210 pregnant women aged 18-45 years who were non-dentists referring to private offices in three areas in Isfahan. A researcher-made questionnaire was used for data collection which determined the average knowledge and performance scores of the subjects as well as the relationship between knowledge and age, education, pregnancy, occupation, and their living area. Also, a one-way analysis of variance as well as Pearson correlation coefficient and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient were used for data analysis. Results. The knowledge and performance levels of most women were average. The knowledge level of pregnant women were directly related to their performance. That is, the more knowledge level, the higher performance score. The knowledge score was not related to age, employment in the non-healthcare section and being a housewife, place of residence and birth, but was directly related to employment in the healthcare section and education. The performance score was related to age, employment in the healthcare section, place of residence and education, but was notrelated to birth rank. Conclusion. The knowledge of pregnant women in Isfahan was moderate and needed to be increased. This knowledge was not much different in various groups of society, thus it should be increased in different ways. Practical Implications. Increasing the knowledge of pregnant women about the types of lesions and their prevention methods can reduce their prevalence which also will lead to a decrease in worries during this period.