Exploring knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to maternal danger signs to reduce stillbirth risk in Papua New Guinea

Most stillbirths (84%) occur in low- and middle-income countries. Recognising maternal danger signs with timely care-seeking and attendance at the health facility could help to reduce the risk of stillbirth. Earlier work conducted by our group in Papua New Guinea (PNG) identified high rates of stillbirth and early neonatal deaths with contributing factors including women having a lack of knowledge of pregnancy related danger signs. In this community-based study we will conduct focus group discussions and individual interviews among pregnant and non-pregnant women, community members (including men, community leaders and elders) and health care workers who provide maternity care in two sites in PNG. We seek to explore the knowledge, attitudes and practices in relation to maternal and newborn danger signs among women and their communities. We will work with collaborators and partners to develop culturally appropriate key health messages and a program to embed these within a birth preparedness and complications readiness program to be implemented in a wider study in PNG and across the Asia-Pacific region. We will identify and present results relating to key themes, including knowledge and awareness of danger signs (reduced fetal movements, premature rupture of membranes) in pregnancy and sleep positions of pregnant women. We will present an outline of key messages to be included within culturally appropriate education and information materials and forums. The design of locally-produced, culturally appropriate messages that can be delivered easily and equitably to communities will improve outcomes for pregnant women and their newborn.