WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Mohammed Hadi Ahmed, Harith Jalil Abdul Rahman and Alaa Maan Irmish

ABSTRACT

Background: Physicians' knowledge of oral health during pregnancy is a vital aspect of prenatal care. Poor oral health in pregnancy increases the risk of early childhood caries, low birth weight, and premature births. Many expectant mothers remain unaware of these risks and rarely seek dental care during pregnancy. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2012 in Diyala governorate to assess the knowledge of physicians working in antenatal care services regarding oral health during pregnancy. Data were collected through a self-reported questionnaire, which included demographic details (age, sex, degree, work location, years since graduation, and number of pregnant women examined weekly) and 20 true/false statements categorized into four areas: oral health problems, disease diagnosis, management, and complications (five questions each). Physicians' knowledge sources were also assessed. Results: Of the physicians surveyed, only 36% (52) demonstrated good knowledge about oral health during pregnancy, while 64% (94) had poor knowledge. Age and the number of pregnant women examined weekly were significantly associated with better knowledge, but other factors, such as work location and years since graduation, showed no significant correlation. Conclusions: The study revealed a lack of adequate knowledge among physicians about oral health during pregnancy and its implications, such as preterm delivery and low birth weight. Training programs for antenatal care physicians on managing oral health issues during pregnancy are essential to improve outcomes for mothers and infants.