Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding Pregnancy Screening for Group B Streptococcus Among Women of Reproductive Age in Asir, southwestern Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Vollständiger Abstract

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Background: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of early-onset neonatal sepsis, and antenatal screening with intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis substantially reduces disease burden. Maternal awareness of, and participation in, GBS screening in Saudi Arabia remain poorly characterised. Aim: To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of women in the Asir Region, southwestern Saudi Arabia, regarding pregnancy screening for GBS, and to identify factors associated with higher knowledge, better practices, and more positive attitudes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between June and November 2024 among women aged 18–45 years in the Asir Region. Data were collected using a validated, self-administered questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, pregnancy history, and GBS-related KAP. Composite scores were standardised to a 0–100 scale and dichotomised using the median. Multivariable logistic regression identified independent predictors. Results: A total of 371 women participated (mean age 32.6 ± 9.3 years); 74.7% had heard of GBS. High knowledge, good practice, and positive attitude scores were observed in 49.1%, 35.8%, and 41.2% of participants, respectively. Previous pregnancy, prior history of GBS, and specialist obstetric care were independently associated with better practices and attitudes. Conclusion: Despite relatively high awareness, GBS screening practices remain suboptimal, underscoring the need for standardised antenatal screening protocols and targeted education.