Abstract

The study sought to assess adherence levels to Folic Acid and Iron supplementation among
expectant women attending antenatal care at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital. Findings
revealed a 58.8% adherence rate among pregnant mothers. Among adherents, the majority
were younger than 30, Christians, rural residents, cohabiting, had primary education, and
were homemakers. Notably, only a minority were experiencing their first pregnancy.
Regarding awareness and advice, a significant percentage knew about the preventive benefits
of Iron-folic acid supplements against anemia, had received advice on supplementation
benefits and the necessity of not missing doses. However, awareness about the specific
benefits, dosage, and sources of folic acid and iron was limited. While most attended early
ANC visits, only a fraction knew about folic acid benefits and sources, the correct dosage, or
foods containing folic acid. Additionally, just over half met the recommended ANC visit
frequency. Factors influencing adherence were largely tied to demographics such as age,
religion, residence, partnership status, education, and employment, alongside knowledge
gaps about supplementation benefits and dosages. Conversely, behaviors like alcohol intake,
late or infrequent ANC attendance, and negative experiences during ANC acted as barriers to
adherence.
Keywords: Pregnancy, Anaemia, Antenatal Care, Folic acid, Iron supplementation