Self-care practices developed by pregnant women in a prenatal outpatient clinic

Abstract

The objective of this descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study was to examine self-care practices developed by pregnant women in a prenatal outpatient clinic. Ninety-nine pregnant women participated. The survey was conducted in a public outpatient clinic in Minas Gerais. A questionnaire was administered. The responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results indicated greater self-care in relation to consumption of toxic substances (alcohol and drugs), hygiene, rest and nutrition. Others, such as physical exercise, wearing sunscreen and breast care were not deemed as priorities by the participants. Most reported receiving self-care guidance from health professionals, especially physicians and nurses. Defining the nature of the theme could contribute to the reorganization of health services, in order to provide better strategies for delivering quality care to pregnant women, especially the development of educational practices.

doi: 10.5216/ree.v16i4.21779.