Social Determinants Related to Oral Health Behaviors in Pregnant Iranian Women: A Cross-sectional Study

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

1 School of Health,Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran

2 Assistant Professor of health education& health promotion, Social Determinants of Health research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences

3 Department of Biostatistics, School of Health, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

4 Department of Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

5 Assistant Professor of health education& health promotion, Social Determinants of Health research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences,

10.22038/jmrh.2024.78102.2330

Abstract

Background & aim: Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the baby, with effects on short-term and long-term health outcomes. In Iran, similar to many other countries, behavioral and social factors play a significant role in shaping the oral health of pregnant women. This study investigated social determinants and prenatal oral health behaviors in Pregnant Iranian Women.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted from December 2022 to January 2023 in Mashhad, Iran. The study utilized a multi-stage cluster random sampling method and collected data using a researcher-made questionnaire. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were calculated. SPSS 22 and Amos 24 software were used for data analysis, employing analytical and descriptive methods.
Results: 300 pregnant women completed the questionnaire. 71% of them used to brush their teeth daily and 18% used dental floss. There was a significant relationship between oral health behaviors, Employment status (β=0.335, P = 0.034), Educational levels (β=0.315, P = 0.006), Educational services (β=0.154, P = 0.022), and Family and friends support) β=0.193, P = 0.003). The results of regression showed that they explain 12% of oral health behaviors, respectively.
Conclusion: This study underscored the significance of social determinants in influencing oral health behaviors among pregnant women. Such insights can aid healthcare providers in delivering tailored services during pregnancy.

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