Maternal knowledge about perinatal group B streptococcal infection in Kaunas region, Lithuania

Abstract

Objective: To examine maternal knowledge about perinatal group B streptococcus (GBS), the source of information and some factors affecting their knowledge. Materials and methods: All pregnant women who were treated or gave birth at four hospitals in Kaunas region between March 1 and May 31, 2011 were invited to participate in the study. Study participants (n=874) were interviewed using an anonymous questionnaire to determine their knowledge about perinatal GBS infection and to obtain information regarding demographic status and obstetrical history. Results: Overall, 511 (58.5%) women have heard about GBS. Women who gave birth were more knowledgeable about this bacteria than pregnant study participants, respectively 71.5% and 51% (p<0,001). The source of information was as follows: obstetrician gynaecologist (60.7%), the internet (31.1%), a friend (14.1%) and a book (11.7%). Women at the age of 20 – 24 years (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.1-7.5) and 25-29 years (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.2-8.3), with a high school education (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.9-3.5), urban resident (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1-2.0) or parous (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.5-3.0) had higher knowledge about perinatal GBS infection than other women. Overall, 353 (69.1%) women who have heard about GBS and 716 (81.9%) of study participants did not have sufficient information about this bacteria. Conclusions: Slightly more than half of women had heard about GBS, but two thirds of them did not have sufficient information. Women’s knowledge depends on age, education, residence place and obstetrical history. There is a need to raise awareness of perinatal GBS infection.