The study aimed to evaluate how pregnant mothers at Bitereko Health Center III in Mitooma
district perceive malaria during pregnancy and propose preventive interventions. Employing
a descriptive cross-sectional design encompassing qualitative and quantitative methods, the
research involved 100 participants from the health center. Data analysis utilized Microsoft
Excel and SPSS software. Results indicated that 80% of pregnant women were knowledgeable
about malaria prevention, including the use of insecticide-treated nets and environmental
measures like clearing bushes and stagnant water. However, 20% lacked awareness regarding
preventive measures. Identified predisposing risk factors for malaria during pregnancy
encompassed poor nutrition, poverty hindering access to balanced diets, unsanitary
conditions fostering mosquito breeding sites, and inadequate antenatal care. The study
found significant associations between age, occupation, mental state, and education level
with knowledge and perception of malaria in pregnancy. Recommendations included
government-led health education during antenatal care focusing on malaria causes,
prevention, and management of associated complications. Regular medical check-ups before
and after delivery were encouraged, along with the consistent use of mosquito nets and other
preventive measures against malaria.
Keywords: Malaria in pregnancy, Insecticide-treated mosquito nets, Pregnant mothers,
Mosquito, antenatal care.