The Influence of Dietary Food Taboos and Sleep Patterns on Hemoglobin Levels Among Pregnant Women in a Primary Midwifery Clinic

Abstract

Adequate hemoglobin (Hb) levels are essential during pregnancy to support maternal health and optimal fetal development. However, sociocultural dietary food taboos and inadequate sleep patterns remain prevalent among pregnant women in many developing regions and may contribute to anemia during pregnancy. This study aimed to examine the relationship between dietary food taboos, sleep patterns, and hemoglobin levels among pregnant women attending a primary midwifery clinic. A quantitative observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted involving 60 pregnant women recruited through simple random sampling. Data on dietary food taboos and sleep patterns were collected using structured questionnaires, while hemoglobin levels were measured using a digital hemoglobinometer. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests with a significance level of p < 0.05. The findings revealed that pregnant women practicing dietary food taboos were significantly more likely to have low hemoglobin levels (p = 0.001). Similarly, inadequate sleep patterns were significantly associated with reduced hemoglobin levels (p = 0.000). Pregnant women who experienced both dietary restrictions and poor sleep quality demonstrated the highest prevalence of anemia. Dietary food taboos and insufficient sleep patterns are significantly associated with low hemoglobin levels among pregnant women. Strengthening nutritional education and promoting adequate rest during pregnancy are crucial strategies to reduce maternal anemia.