Knowledge about miscarriages among patients admitted with a sporadic miscarriage at teaching hospital Peradeniya

Abstract

Although miscarriages are common, delayed presentation to healthcare services can lead to increased complications. This study aimed to identify knowledge gaps regarding miscarriages, which could help reduce such delays. The objective of this research was to assess patients’ knowledge about the symptoms, risk factors, complications and planning of subsequent pregnancies following a miscarriage, and to examine its association with sociodemographic characteristics among women admitted with sporadic miscarriage to the Teaching Hospital Peradeniya. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 106 patients admitted with sporadic miscarriage. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using the Pearson chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test. Only 25.5% of participants correctly identified that prior use of an intrauterine device does not cause miscarriage. Similarly, just 17% knew that stressful events do not lead to miscarriage and only 12.3% were aware that lifting heavy objects during pregnancy is not a cause. There was no statistically significant association between age and overall knowledge (p = 0.076), while educational level showed a significant association with knowledge (p = 0.000). This study showed even though the overall knowledge about miscarriage was generally adequate, many participants held misconceptions and false beliefs. A significant association was found between educational level and knowledge, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions. Age, however, was not significantly associated with knowledge levels.