Factors Influencing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) Regarding Dental Diagnosis and Treatment During Pregnancy Among Pregnant Women in Harbin, China: A Cross-Sectional Study.

PURPOSE: This study primarily aimed to identify factors influencing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of pregnant women regarding dental diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy in Harbin, China.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2025, during which 383 pregnant women attending the Obstetrics Department of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University were successfully recruited via convenience sampling. A self-designed, validated questionnaire based on the KAP model and the standardized Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, univariate analysis, and multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

The mean KAP scores (standardized to a 100-point scale) were suboptimal: knowledge, 59.36 ± 14.10; attitude, 59.92 ± 13.60; practice, 64.66 ± 16.74; and total KAP, 60.33 ± 12.28. Knowledge gaps were most evident regarding oral medications and radiographic examinations. Dental anxiety was prevalent in 72.0% of participants. The primary barrier to seeking care was safety concerns (74.93%). Medical professionals and online new media were the most frequently reported sources of oral health information. Multiple linear regression identified medical background, pregnancy intention, educational attainment, and dental anxiety as significant predictors of total KAP score (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Pregnant women's KAP toward dental diagnosis and treatment were influenced by educational attainment, Medical professional background, pregnancy intention, and dental anxiety. Developing national guidelines, enhancing multidisciplinary collaboration, and providing targeted education and psychological support may improve oral health outcomes.