Use of Dialogue to Uncover Perceptions of Preconception Care From Women of Reproductive Age in the Sampled Districts of Limpopo Province.

BACKGROUND

Preconception care (PCC) includes biomedical, behavioral, and social health interventions provided before conception to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Despite its importance, the utilization of PCC remains limited in many settings, including parts of South Africa. Understanding women's perceptions of PCC is essential for improving service uptake and implementation. This study explored and described the perceptions of women of reproductive age regarding the uptake and utilization of PCC services in selected districts of Limpopo province, South Africa.

METHODS

A qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive design was used. The study was conducted in primary healthcare clinics and community health centers in three districts of Limpopo province: Capricorn, Mopani, and Vhembe. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 51 women aged 19-35 years. Data were collected through eight focus group discussions (FGDs) consisting of six to eight participants per group. Discussions were conducted in Tshivenda, Xitsonga, and Sepedi, audio-recorded with consent, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using Tesch's eight-step open coding method. Trustworthiness was ensured through member checking, peer debriefing, and the maintenance of an audit trail. Ethical guidelines were adhered to.

RESULTS

Two main themes emerged. First, participants perceived PCC as a valuable service that can promote healthy pregnancies and improve maternal health outcomes. Participants emphasized the need for early education and access to PCC services. Second, several barriers to PCC utilization were identified, including limited awareness of PCC, fear of HIV testing, cultural norms surrounding pregnancy disclosure, and lack of partner support.

CONCLUSION

Although women recognized the benefits of PCC, several sociocultural and structural barriers limited its utilization. Increasing awareness, promoting partner involvement, strengthening health system integration, and improving culturally sensitive health education may enhance PCC uptake in Limpopo province.