Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on Self-medication with Over-the-counter Medicines among Pregnant Women in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background: Self-medication during pregnancy is a crucial topic to discuss due to its effects on both the mother and the fetus. Most of the pregnant women rely on over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for self-medication regarding pregnancy-related conditions. However, published data on self-medication among pregnant women in Sri Lanka is scarce. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding self-medication with OTC medicines Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending maternity clinics in six Medical Officer of Health (MOH) areas in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Data were collected from 399 participants (selected through a simple random sampling method), using a self administered questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 27.0. Results: Among respondents, 63.4% were in the age group of 20-30 years, and 38.3% were Tamil. Moreover, 6.8% used self-medication and iron supplements were the most self-medicated (74.4%) by the participants. The mean(±SD) score for knowledge was 4.38(±0.873), and for attitude and practice, those were 27.56(±3.752) and 20.35(±4.325), respectively. Participants’ practices were significantly associated with ethnicity, educational level, and gestational stage (p=0.036, p≤0.001, p≤0.001), respectively. Significant and positive linear correlations were observed between knowledge and attitude (r=0.375, p<0.001), attitude and practice (r=0.518, p<0.001), and knowledge and practice (r=0.224, p<0.001). However, the majority of the participants 87% had misconceptions that antibiotics can be used at any stage of pregnancy, and 93% believed that they can use any medicine at any stage of pregnancy. Additionally, most participants (96%) believed they can use old prescriptions to purchase medicines during pregnancy. Conclusions: The study elucidates a higher level of knowledge among participants regarding self medication during pregnancy. However, there is a need for improvements in attitudes and practices on the same aspect. Targeted awareness campaigns should focus on ensuring safer self medication practices