A qualitative study of childbirth fear and preparation among primigravid women: The blind spot of antenatal care in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Objectives: This study aimed to explore childbirth fear and childbirth preparation among primigravid women in the late pregnancy from 36 to 40 weeks gestation

Methods: We purposively recruited 18 primigravid women into in-depth interviews, 21 birth companions, and 13 health workers into focus group discussions. Participants were recruited from two community hospitals' maternity waiting homes in Lilongwe, Malawi. Semi-structured interview guides were used to collect data that were analyzed using content analysis.

Early pregnancy exposure to feto-toxic medications among out-patients in Malawi.

Objectives: To estimate the proportion of women in early pregnancy prescribed potentially feto-toxic medications at an out-patient clinic in Malawi.

Methods: Over six-months the number of women of child-bearing age attending out-patient clinics and prescribed medicines at Mitundu Community Hospital was derived from the hospital's registry and pharmacy records. Women prescribed potentially feto-toxic medicines (using Food and Drug Administration classifications) by medical assessments were subsequently interviewed and pregnancy tested.