Year : 2020

Volume : Volume 11

Issue : Issue 2s

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Jeyashree Jeyachandran.
jeyashreemvm@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  Periodontal disease (PD) is an inflammatory disease of the tissues supporting the teeth. PD affects , 70% of adults. Women who develop PD during pregnancy, it’s estimated 1 woman in 5, may have a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.  Periodontal pockets are a reservoir of oral microbiota. Modifications in oral microbiota may be considered as a potential mechanism for developing PD during pregnancy.  In addition, there is evidence in the literature suggesting an association between periodontal diseases in pregnant women and giving birth to premature, low-birth infants. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the degree of periodontal health knowledge, and awareness, among pregnant women in D.Y. Patil hospital. This was carried out by crosssectional survey using self-administered, structured questionnaires distributed at maternity ward in D.Y. Patil university. Questionnaire items addressed personal and socio-demographic variables and periodontal health awareness and knowledge of pregnant women. Women (n = 100) were randomly chosen from attendants to these centres. It was observed that the age group of 25-30yrs had higher knowledge scores as compared to the 20-25 age group and were receptive about dental treatment in their 2nd trimester. Adequate measures should be taken to increase the awareness about this association thereby attempting to prevent the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Knowledge and awareness for pregnant women about their teeth and gingival condition is generally poor. Pregnant women need accurate information about their teeth and oral health. Simple educational preventive programmes on oral self-care and disease prevention before and during pregnancy should be provided to improve oral health.

Keywords: Pregnancy, Periodontal Disease, Chronic periodontitis, Pregnant, Gynecology.