Background: Globally, an estimated 287 000 maternal deaths occurred in 2010 annually as a result of complications
of pregnancy and childbirth. Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia were accounted for 85% of the global burden
(245 000 maternal deaths) including Ethiopia. Obstetric related complications cannot be reliably predicted. Hence,
insignificant decline of maternal mortality ratio might be due to the non use of birth preparedness and complication
readiness strategies. Therefore, this paper aimed to assess knowledge and practices towards birth preparedness and
complication readiness and associated factors among women of reproductive age group (15–49) in Robe Woreda,
Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia.
Method: Community-based cross-sectional study supplemented by qualitative design was conducted in January, 2012.
A total of 575 women from 5 kebeles were selected after proportionally allocated to population size and interviewed
using structured and semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaires. Univariate and bivariate analysis was performed.
Multiple logistic regression analysis was also done to control for possible confounding variables.
Results: Taking into account place of delivery identification, means of transportation, skilled attendant identification
and saving money, about 16.5% of the respondents were prepared for birth and its complications. Preparation for birth
and its complication was higher among educated mothers (AOR = 6.23, 95% CI = 1.5, 25.87). Monthly income of >716
Ethiopian birr (AOR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.01, 3.87), ANC visit (AOR = 5.68, 95% CI = 1.27, 25.4), knowledge of obstetric
complications (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI = 1.61, 5.37) and those who had given birth at health facility before their last
delivery (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI = 2.04, 7.46) were also significantly associated with birth preparedness and complication
readiness.
Conclusion: The study identified very low magnitude of birth preparedness and complication readiness in the
study area and poor knowledge and practices of preparation for birth and its complication. Community education
about preparation for birth and its complication and empowerment of women through expansion of educational
opportunities are important steps in improving birth preparedness. In all health facilities during antenatal care
emphasis should given to preparation for birth and its complication and provide information and education to
all pregnant women.