A Description of The Postpartum Mothers’ Knowledge on Perineal Wound Care at Puskesmas Mlati II Sleman Yogyakarta

Abstract

Perineal wound infections represent a significant contributor to maternal mortality, often resulting from inadequate knowledge regarding wound care. The Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) stands at 211 per 100,000 live births, with infections accounting for 20-30% of these cases. Among these, 25-55% are attributed to birth canal infections, which are influenced by various factors, including delayed mobilization, improper vulvar hygiene, insufficient vascularization, stress, and inadequate nutrition. Perineal care refers to the practice of maintaining the health of the perineal area—located between the anus and external genitalia—in postpartum women, to prevent infection. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge regarding perineal wound care among postpartum mothers at the Puskesmas (Community Health Center) Mlati II in Sleman, Yogyakarta. This quantitative descriptive study employed a cross-sectional design. The study population consisted of 87 postpartum mothers, from which a sample of 30 respondents was selected through accidental sampling. Data analysis was performed using univariate analysis with frequency distribution. The results indicated that the majority of respondents (93.3%) exhibited good knowledge, while 6.7% had sufficient knowledge. Analysis by age revealed that 78.6% of respondents aged 20-35 years had good knowledge, while 10% of respondents in this age group had sufficient knowledge. Regarding educational background, the majority of respondents with good knowledge had completed high school (57.1%), followed by university education (25%), while 10% of respondents with sufficient knowledge had completed elementary or junior high school education. In terms of parity, 46.4% of primiparous women and 53.6% of multiparous women demonstrated good knowledge, with 100% of respondents in both groups exhibiting sufficient knowledge. Based on these findings, it is recommended that healthcare providers continue to enhance services by offering education, counseling, and information on perineal wound care to postpartum mothers.