Perceptions and determinants of oral health care among Iranian pregnant women: a qualitative study

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study aimed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the determinants that influence oral healthcare behaviours among Iranian pregnant women.Study designQualitative study.SettingComprehensive health service centres.ParticipantsA sample consisting of all people involved in the process of oral care during pregnancy, 18 pregnant women, 7 midwives/healthcare workers, 3 supervisors of prenatal care services and 3 dentists) were purposefully sampled in terms of demographic characteristics.MethodsThe qualitative content analysis study conducted 31 semistructured individual interviews in 2022, utilising MAXQDA V.10.ResultsThe participants identified 3 main categories and 11 subcategories: individual and physiological determinants (care needs, perceived importance, motivation, oral health literacy and inherent pregnancy limitations), organisational determinants (costs, access to equipment and services, review of service delivery process and professional behaviour) and social-cultural determinants (educational services and support from family and friends).ConclusionsThe results can be used in interventions to improve oral healthcare for pregnant women. This study highlights the importance of addressing individual, organisational and social-cultural determinants to improve oral healthcare during pregnancy.