A Thematic Analysis Of Kuwaiti Women's Attitude, Behaviors, Beliefs, And Awareness About Pregnancy And Optimal Oral Hygiene Care

Abstract

Background:

During pregnancy, the hormonal and physiological processes are complicated and might predispose inflammation of the gums and caries. In spite of these dangers, there are still lots of pregnant women who do not know the value of professional oral care and preventive dental treatment. The study of oral-health beliefs and practices of women in pregnancy has received little research in Kuwait.

Purpose:

This paper examined the attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and awareness of Kuwaiti pregnant women to oral hygiene in pregnancy through application of Health Action Model to determine the behavioral and motivational determinants of the behavior.

Methods:

The qualitative exploratory design was adopted. The focus group composed of ten Kuwaiti pregnant women pursuing antenatal care in private clinics and semi-structured interview was used. Thematic analysis was run through NVivo 12 software and Braun and Clarke six-phase framework to transcribe and analyze the data. Reflexive journaling, member checking, and peer debriefing were used to ensure credibility and trustworthiness.

Findings:

There were three key themes: (1) a lack of understanding of the oral systemic health connection, (2) perceived obstacles to professional dental care fear and competing medical advice, and (3) the powerful impact of social norms and self-care beliefs that cultural expectations have. These results imply that the motivational, social, and environmental factors interact with each other to influence oral-health behavior during pregnancy according to the Health Action Model.

Conclusion:

Kuwaiti expectant women were partially aware, and their oral-health behaviors were inconsistent and dependent on fear, misinformation, and cultural rules. The inclusion of oral-health education in antenatal services, as well as the enhancement of partnership between dental and obstetric services, could help to increase preventive steps and maternal health.