Minor ailments during pregnancy among primigravida women at Al-Diwanyiah Governorate

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy, particularly the first, is commonly accompanied by minor physical discomforts that affect maternal wellbeing, with self-management practices such as home remedies frequently used for relief.

Objective: To determine the incidence of minor ailments among primigravida (first-time pregnant) women during pregnancy and assess the extent of home-remedy use for symptom relief.

Methods: A descriptive study was conducted at a maternal and pediatric teaching hospital in Al-Diwaniyah governorate, Iraq, among 100 primigravida women selected via non-probability convenience sampling between March and July 2023. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, with results presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results: Most participants (68%) were aged 20–35 years, 36% had completed intermediate school, 53% were housewives, and 67% resided in urban areas. Most (87%) were in their second trimester, and 55% reported a planned pregnancy. Morning sickness (80%), frequent urination (77%), and back pain (75%) were the most commonly reported discomforts; insomnia (22%) was least common. Home remedies were used by 74% of participants.

Conclusion: All primigravida women experienced minor pregnancy-related discomforts to varying degrees, irrespective of gestational age, with morning sickness most prevalent and insomnia least common. Nearly three-quarters used home remedies. Prenatal health education on minor discomforts and appropriate self-care is recommended.