Abstract:
Background: Knowledge of sexual and reproductive health during pregnancy is an important
aspect which affects the physical and mental health of pregnant mothers and spouses. Sexual
relationship is changed during pregnancy due to the psychological backwardness of couples and
fear of having a negative impact on the baby. Therefore, it is important to assess the knowledge of
sexual and reproductive health during the pregnancy period.
Objectives: To assess sexual and reproductive health knowledge of pregnant women and spouses
during antenatal period in Katana Medical Officer of Health (MOH) area
Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in nine antenatal clinics at Katana
MOH area from May to July 2023. A pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used
to collect data. The knowledge level was assessed with 11 questions and categorized the level of
knowledge as: 0-3 poor, 4-7 moderate, and 8-10 good. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive
statistics and Chi-square test were used to analyze data.
Results: The study was conducted among 206 couples. The mean±SD age was 29.5±4.47 years.
Majority were Sinhalese (89.1%). Approximately one fourth of the participants (25.5%) had
formal education up to Ordinary Level and 44.9% of pregnant mothers were in their third
trimester. According to the findings, 67.7% believed that engage in sexual activities during
pregnancy is a safe practice and 87.6% thought sexual activities were beneficial in pregnancy. The
majority of the mothers and spouses (63.1%) were unaware of the suitable trimester for vaginal
intercourse. Out of all, 71.84% of couples had a moderate level of knowledge of sexual and
reproductive health. The leading information source for the participants was public health
midwives (88.6%). The knowledge level of the participants was not significantly associated
(p>0.05) with any demographic characteristics of the participants.
Conclusion: The knowledge of sexual and reproductive health among pregnant women and
spouses was ‘moderate’. The study recommends strengthening sexual and reproductive health
education during the initial visits to the MOH centers.
