Evaluation of Antenatal Care Norms Among Pregnant Women Attending Wangata General Referral Hospital, Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Cross-Sectional Audit Study
Abstract
Introduction
Antenatal care (ANC) is a cornerstone of maternal health, yet its quality remains suboptimal in many low-resource settings. This study evaluated compliance with national ANC norms and assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of pregnant women attending Wangata General Referral Hospital (HGR Wangata), Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Methods
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from January to April 2025, combining a clinical audit of ANC service delivery and a KAP survey of 116 pregnant women selected through random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, medical record reviews, and direct observation of resources. Compliance was measured against the national reproductive health standards (PNSR). Statistical analysis was performed using EPI Info 3.5.4.
Results
Significant gaps were identified. Only 24% of women adhered to the recommended four-visit schedule, and 56.9% of pregnancies were undesired. Regarding interventions: 100% received nutritional education; 96% were tested for HIV; 48% received intermittent preventive treatment for malaria (IPTp); 37% received insecticide-treated nets (ITNs); 53% received tetanus toxoid; 96% received iron-folate; 62% received mebendazole; and 0% were screened for syphilis due to stockouts. Resource availability was suboptimal: only 22% of required test kits, 64% of equipment, and 50% of supervision tools were available. Among women, 34.5% did not know the recommended number of ANC visits, and 72.8% believed pregnancy should be concealed in the first trimester due to fear of evil spirits (91.8%). Nevertheless, 84.5% reported learning new information during ANC.
Conclusion
Adherence to ANC norms at HGR Wangata is substantially deficient, particularly regarding timing, malaria prevention, syphilis screening, and vaccination. Resource shortages and cultural beliefs (concealment of early pregnancy) constitute major barriers. Strengthening supply chains, continuous staff training, and community sensitization on early ANC are urgently needed.
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How to cite
Ndongbo Lokongo, S. (2026). Evaluation of Antenatal Care Norms Among Pregnant Women Attending Wangata General Referral Hospital, Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Cross-Sectional Audit Study. SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0023-evaluation-of-antenatal-care-norms-among-pregnant-women-attending-wang