[Perception of common symptomatology during pregnancy, puerperium and lactation].

The objective of this investigation was to identify women's perception on normal and abnormal symptoms of pregnancy, puerperium and breastfeeding; its purpose was to assess the varying educational needs in the geographical area where a reproductive health education program will be implemented. 405 fertile females living in non-residential areas were interviewed in their homes. A predominantly pre-coded questionnaire was used; items related to reproductive health, preventable and susceptible to education were included. Symptomatology perceived incorrectly as normal: a) In pregnancy: Dysuria: 24 percent, genital hemorrhage: 15 per cent, absence of fetal movement: 23 per cent, did not know how to recognize preterm birth symptoms: 70 per cent. b) In puerperium: Increased quantity in lochia rubra: 17 per cent, fever: 22 per cent, fetid lochia: 28 per cent, and c) In breastfeeding: Breasts red and warm: 48 per cent, fever: 30 per cent, nipple fissures: 70 per cent. Symptomatology perceived incorrectly as abnormal: a) In pregnancy: Frequent urination: 17 per cent, morning nausea in the 1st trimester: 9 per cent, emotional instability: 21 per cent, Braxton Hicks contractions: 41 per cent, and b) Postpartum period: Decreased quantity in lochia rubra: 9 per cent, non-fetid lochia alba: 43 per cent, calostrum: 20 per cent. The assessment educational needs showed an inaccurate identification of abnormal and normal obstetric events; its frequency varied. It is essential that a pregnant woman be well informed and educated in order to preserve her own health as well as that of her unborn child. She must be able to recognize warning signs, take action and demand appropriate medical care. Health care personnel and health educators must be responsible for the promoting of maternal and child health during pregnancy.