Maternal knowledge-seeking behavior among pregnant women in Tanzania

BACKGROUND: Maternal mortality continues to be a global challenge with about 830 women dying of childbirth and pregnancy complications every day. Tanzania has a maternal mortality rate of 524 deaths per 100,000 live births. OBJECTIVE: Knowing symptoms associated with antenatal risks among pregnant women may result in seeking care earlier or self-advocating for more immediate treatment in health facilities. This article sought to identify knowledge-seeking behaviors of pregnant women in Northern Tanzania, to determine the challenges met and how these should be addressed to enhance knowledge on pregnancy risks and when to seek care. METHODS: Interview questions and questionnaires were the main data collection tools. Six gynecologists and four midwives were interviewed, while 168 pregnant women and 14 recent mothers participated in the questionnaires. RESULTS: With the rise in mobile technology and Internet penetration in Tanzania, more women are seeking information through online sources. However, for women to trust these sources, medical experts have to be involved in developing the systems. CONCLUSION: Through expert systems diagnosis of pregnancy complications and recommendations from experts can be made available to pregnant women in Tanzania. In addition, self-care education during pregnancy will save women money and reduce hospital loads in Tanzania.