MGHD 2018

Background: VTE is among the major causes of maternal mortality worldwide. Increasing knowledge among pregnant women as well as promoting adherence to medications for pregnant women diagnosed with VTE can reduce risks for getting this condition. There was no data or research on the level of knowledge about VTE among pregnant women in Rwanda. Methods: A cross-sectional study on pregnant women who attended antenatal care services at three referral hospitals in Kigali city using a questionnaire. Demographic data and VTE knowledge levels were collected. Results: The knowledge level about VTE among the pregnant women who participated in this study is 9.33%. 76.33% have knowledge on the severity of VTE whereas 15.67% have good knowledge of the availability of treatment of VTE. Participants at CHUK whose occupation was in healthcare field and those who had more than 5 children had a significantly higher level of VTE knowledge. Conclusion: This study shows that knowledge of VTE among pregnant women attending antenatal care in the three-referral hospitals in Kigali is low. More attention must be paid to education and awareness to ensure safe and high-quality antenatal care and thus maternal mortality reduction.