Conocimiento sobre la importancia del control prenatal y factores de riesgo, de embarazadas adolescentes que acuden a una consulta ginecológica en un Centro de Salud de Guayaquil, año 2025.

Abstract

Knowledge about the importance of prenatal care in adolescents is crucial to reducen health risks for both mother and baby, thus lowering the rates of complications such as hypertensive disorders, premature birth, and low birth weight. Objective: To determine the knowledge of pregnant adolescents regarding the importance of prenatal care and risk factors. Study type: Descriptive, quantitative, prospective, and cross-sectional cohort study. Population: 100 pregnant adolescents attending the health center. Technique: Survey. Instrument: 18-question questionnaire. Results: Sociodemographic characteristics: 85%, age range 15-19 years; 45% are in a common-law relationship; 40% know what prenatal care is and 50% recognize its importance; 30% identify the first trimester as the ideal time to begin prenatal care, while 65% identify the second trimester; only 5% know the minimum number of checkups recommended by the WHO; 45% are aware of fetal risks. 50% recognize vaginal bleeding as a risk factor; 60% know that alcohol and tobacco are harmful. Conclusion: Although there is a basic theoretical understanding of prenatal care, critical gaps remain. This gap between the information received and preventive behavior highlights the need to strengthen educational strategies.