Devising and validating a counseling protocol for couples reporting at OBG obstetrics and gynecology department of PGI Chandigarh with problems related to congenital disorders in their children

Abstract

The study was conducted to determine the pattern and profile of congenital disorders, understand the information needs of parents and to develop and validate a counseling protocol for affected couples reporting at a tertiary care hospital, Chandigarh. Prevalence for CMF was 19.5 per 1000 live births. Nervous/musculoskeletal were the major system involved. Males were affected more than females. Majority of mothers were lt25 years of age; were multigravida and had history of multiple abortions. Content and the layout graphics of intervention module were found to be relevant by the judges. Participants poorly understood Birth defects. Majority of the participants didn t consider folic acid deficiency as causes. Many didn t know the legal time period of Medical termination of pregnancy. No women knew that Sex selection drug can cause birth defects. Intervention package (self-instruction manual) was found to be helpful for parents. Giving proper time and motivation increased compliance among participants. newline