Pregnancy in Central Africa: the Case of Drc

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Kinshasa (DRC) in the Plateau health area of the Lemba Health Zone to analyze the factors associated with malaria among pregnant women, as well as its financial impacts and effects on preparations for childbirth. A sample of 228 pregnant women was recruited. Data were collected via a questionnaire and analyzed using Epi Info 7.The results show that 78.9% of the women experienced an episode of malaria during pregnancy. Prenatal care was the main reason for seeking medical care (31.6%). The majority owned an insecticide-treated mosquito net (86%), and 78.3% used it regularly. The cost of treatment was considered high by 64.9%, and 68.4% reported that it impacted their preparations for childbirth.Significant associations were observed between malaria, frequency of medical visits, mosquito net use, and the environment (p < 0.05). The study highlights the role of environmental factors (standing water, trash, and uncleaned gutters).These results underscore the need to strengthen prevention and access to malaria control measures among pregnant women.