Factors Influencing Pregnant Women's Intent to Undergo Dental and Oral Examinations during Antenatal Care (K1) Visits

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal health during pregnancy is a significant concern, as a substantial portion of maternal deaths worldwide, including in Indonesia, are attributed to infections. Dental and oral diseases are among the primary causes of such infections. This study addresses the low uptake of dental and oral examinations among pregnant women during their first antenatal care (K1) visit. Aim: To examine the factors influencing pregnant women's intent to undergo dental and oral examinations as part of their antenatal care (K1). Material and Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a non-equivalent control group design was conducted. Pregnant women were divided into a treatment group that received maternal independence training and a control group that received no intervention. A pre-test was administered to both groups. The sample consisted of 60 pregnant women from various in Gunung Anyar district, Surabaya. Results: Age, occupation, and outcome expectancies did not significantly influence the intent to undergo dental examinations. However, education level, self-efficacy, and perceived risk were significant predictors of intent. Self-efficacy was the strongest predictor, with higher odds ratios in both the treatment and control groups. Conclusion: Factors such as education, self-efficacy, and perceived risk significantly influence pregnant women's intent to undergo dental and oral examinations during their first antenatal care visit. Interventions aimed at enhancing self-efficacy may be effective in increasing uptake of these services.