Compliance to Iron Folic Acid Supplementation and its associated factors among post-partum mothers of Bharatpur Metropolitan

Abstract

Subject Submission of research article titled “Compliance to Iron Folic Acid Supplementation and its associated factors among post-partum mothers of Bharatpur Metropolitan” Abstract Background: Anemia is a major global health issue, especially affecting young children, pregnant and postpartum women, and adolescent girls, with 1.92 billion affected in 2021, notably in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Iron deficiency is a key cause, requiring interventions like iron and folic acid supplementation. Despite efforts in Nepal, anemia prevalence fluctuates, with compliance a concern. This study assesses iron and folic acid supplementation compliance among postpartum mothers in Bharatpur Metropolitan City. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 303 postpartum mothers with babies aged 45days to 1 year in Bharatpur Metropolitan City. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested questionnaire. Results: The compliance rate for iron and folic acid supplementation among postpartum mothers was 48.2%. Among different sociodemographic variables, religion of participants was found to be significantly associated with compliance to iron folic acid supplementation (OR 5.367, 95% CI 1.173-16.636). Moreover, participants having more than four antenatal visits (OR 3.465, 95% CI 1.366-8.792), participants having good knowledge about anemia (OR 5.554, 95% CI 2.485-12.415), and participants having good knowledge about iron and folic acid supplementation (OR 2.442, 95% CI 1.064-5.60) were also significantly associated with higher compliance. Conclusion: To improve IFAS adherence, healthcare providers should focus on health education on the postpartum importance of iron and folic acid supplementation, along with diligent follow-up using culturally tailored strategies. Enhanced compliance will lead to better health outcomes for mothers and their babies.