Perception of Early Pregnancy Symptoms among Antenatal Women in Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria | Chapter 05 | Innovations in Medicine and Medical Research Vol. 1
Background: Early pregnancy symptoms are commonly experienced by most women during pregnancy. While some such as missed periods may serve as an early warning symptom, others may be troublesome, necessitating treatment, and even hospital admission. Objective: The main objective of this study is to determine the pattern of early pregnancy symptoms among pregnant women in Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria. Specifically, it would determine the type of symptoms, the period of onset, climax, and when they subside. It would also determine the recurrence rate and the maternal effects in the index pregnancy. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study of 616 booked pregnant women who attended antenatal care at the department of obstetrics and gynaecology, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, from February 2015 to January 2016. The patients were educated about early pregnancy symptoms, and relevant questions and concerns were addressed. V...