The Knowledge of Safe Motherhood Among higher education students in Aatharai

Abstract

This study assessed the knowledge of safe motherhood practices among higher education students in Aatharai Rural Municipality, Tehrathum. Anchored in a positivist paradigm and using a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative design, researchers surveyed 70 diploma-level students from Terhathum Multiple Campus and Hyatrung Jharana Campus. Data were collected through structured, close-ended questionnaires via simple random sampling. Findings revealed a high level of awareness— (97.1%) of students demonstrated sound knowledge of safe motherhood practices, especially in areas like antenatal check-ups, iron and vitamin A intake, TT vaccination, and the role of trained health workers. Health professionals were the primary knowledge source (41.4%), followed by social circles and family. While (87.1%) preferred trained professionals for delivery and (72.9%) reported good maternal health post-delivery, gaps persisted in knowledge about safe abortion and STD prevention. These results emphasize the critical role of health workers and suggest that educational outreach should expand to address specific knowledge gaps.