CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Nutrition during pregnancy is a key factor that determines the health of both the mother and the
unborn child. Pregnancy is a period of increased nutritional demand due to the rapid growth and
development of the fetus, as well as changes in maternal tissues. Adequate intake of essential nutrients
such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals is necessary to support these physiological
changes (World Health Organization [WHO], 2020).

Proper maternal nutrition plays a significant role in preventing pregnancy-related complications such as
anemia, low birth weight, preterm delivery, and maternal mortality. For instance, iron is essential for the
formation of hemoglobin and prevention of anemia, while folic acid helps in preventing neural tube
defects in the fetus (UNICEF, 2019).

However, in many developing countries, including Nigeria, pregnant women often face challenges in
maintaining adequate nutrition. These challenges include poverty, lack of nutritional knowledge, cultural
beliefs, food taboos, and limited access to healthcare services (National Population Commission [NPC] &
ICF, 2018). As a result, poor nutritional status among pregnant women remains a major public health
concern.

Studies have shown that poor maternal nutrition contributes significantly to adverse pregnancy
outcomes such as low birth weight, intrauterine growth restriction, and increased maternal and infant
mortality (WHO, 2020). Therefore, assessing the nutritional status of pregnant women is essential for
identifying nutritional deficiencies and improving maternal and child health outcomes.

This study is focused on assessing the nutritional status of pregnant women attending Primary Health
Care Old Kutunku, Gwagwalada, FCT, with the aim of identifying their dietary practices, level of
nutritional knowledge, and factors affecting their nutrition.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the importance of adequate nutrition during pregnancy, many pregnant women do not meet
their daily nutritional requirements. This is often due to factors such as low income, poor dietary habits,
lack of knowledge about proper nutrition, and cultural restrictions on certain foods.

In Nigeria, maternal malnutrition remains a significant health problem. According to NDHS (2018), a high
proportion of pregnant women suffer from anemia, which is largely associated with poor nutrition. This
condition increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Furthermore, some pregnant women avoid nutrient-rich foods due to cultural beliefs and
misconceptions, which further worsens their nutritional status. These challenges can lead to serious
health outcomes such as low birth weight, poor fetal development, and increased susceptibility to
infections.

Therefore, there is a need to assess the nutritional status of pregnant women attending Primary Health
Care Old Kutunku in order to identify the gaps and provide appropriate recommendations.

1.3 Research Objectives

General Objective

To assess the nutritional status of pregnant women attending Primary Health Care Old Kutunku,
Gwagwalada FCT.

Specific Objectives

To examine the dietary habits of pregnant women attending the health facility.

To assess the nutritional status of pregnant women.

To identify factors affecting proper nutrition among pregnant women.

To determine the level of knowledge pregnant women have about nutrition during pregnancy.

1.4 Research Questions

What are the dietary habits of pregnant women attending Primary Health Care Old Kutunku?

What is the nutritional status of pregnant women attending the health facility?

What factors influence proper nutrition among pregnant women?

What level of knowledge do pregnant women have about nutrition during pregnancy?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

Null Hypothesis (H₀):

There is no significant relationship between nutritional knowledge and nutritional status of pregnant
women attending Primary Health Care Old Kutunku.

Alternative Hypothesis (H₁):

There is a significant relationship between nutritional knowledge and nutritional status of pregnant
women attending Primary Health Care Old Kutunku.

1.6 Basic Assumptions

This study is based on the following assumptions:

Nutritional status is influenced by dietary habits and socioeconomic factors.

Respondents will provide honest and accurate information.

Poor nutrition during pregnancy can affect maternal and fetal health outcomes.

1.7 Significance of the Study

This study will be beneficial in the following ways:

Pregnant women: It will increase awareness of proper nutrition during pregnancy.

Health workers: It will help in planning effective nutrition education programs.

Government: It will provide data for improving maternal health policies.

Researchers: It will serve as a reference for future studies.

1.8 Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study is limited to pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Primary Health Care Old Kutunku,
Gwagwalada FCT. It focuses on assessing their nutritional status, dietary habits, and factors affecting
their nutrition.

The study does not cover pregnant women outside the facility or other health centers, and the sample
size is limited to 40 respondents due to time and resource constraints.

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Concept of Maternal Nutrition

Maternal nutrition refers to the dietary intake and nutritional status of a woman during pregnancy.
Adequate nutrition is essential for maintaining maternal health and ensuring proper fetal development
(WHO, 2020).

2.2 Nutritional Requirements During Pregnancy

Pregnancy increases the need for nutrients such as:

Carbohydrates – provide energy

Proteins – support tissue growth

Fats – aid brain development

Folic Acid – prevent birth defects

Calcium – support bone development

UNICEF (2019) recommends a balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains.

2.3 Factors Affecting Nutritional Status

Poverty

Educational level

Cultural beliefs and food taboos

Access to healthcare

NDHS (2018) indicates that low-income women are more vulnerable to poor nutrition.

2.4 Effects of Poor Nutrition in Pregnancy

Low birth weight

Maternal anemia

Preterm delivery

Increased mortality

WHO (2020) emphasizes that poor maternal nutrition contributes to adverse pregnancy outcomes.

2.5 Empirical Review

Ogunba (2017) found that poor nutritional knowledge leads to inadequate dietary intake among
pregnant women in Nigeria.

2.6 Theoretical Framework

This study is based on the Health Belief Model (HBM), which suggests that individuals are more likely to
adopt healthy behaviors if they understand the benefits and risks involved.

CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Design

A descriptive cross-sectional design will be used.

Primary Health Care Old Kutunku, Gwagwalada, FCT, Nigeria.

3.3 Study Population

Pregnant women attending antenatal clinic.

3.4 Sample Size

40 pregnant women.

3.5 Sampling Technique

Simple random sampling.

3.6 Instrument for Data Collection

Structured questionnaire

Interview

3.7 Validity of Instrument

The instrument will be reviewed by the supervisor.

3.8 Reliability of Instrument

Pre-test will be conducted.

3.9 Method of Data Collection

Data will be collected during antenatal visits.

3.10 Method of Data Analysis

Tables

Percentages

Charts

3.11 Ethical Consideration

Informed consent will be obtained

Confidentiality maintained

Participation voluntary
REFERENCES

National Population Commission (NPC) & ICF. (2018). Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey.

Ogunba, B. O. (2017). Nutritional knowledge among pregnant women.

UNICEF. (2019). Maternal Nutrition Guidelines.

World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Nutrition During Pregnancy.

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