Iron Tablet Consumption Method Is Associated with Anemia Status Among Second-Trimester Pregnant Women in South Kuta, Bali, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Anemia during pregnancy remains an important maternal health problem despite relatively high coverage of iron supplementation. The effectiveness of iron supplementation may be influenced not only by tablet availability and consumption but also by the method of consumption. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the method of iron tablet consumption and anemia status among second-trimester pregnant women in the South Kuta Community Health Center working area. Methods: This study used a quantitative correlational analytical design with a cross-sectional approach. The study was conducted in the South Kuta Community Health Center working area, Benoa District, Badung, Indonesia, in May 2026. A total of 46 second-trimester pregnant women who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected using purposive sampling. Data on the method of iron tablet consumption were collected using a structured questionnaire, while anemia status was obtained from hemoglobin records in the pregnant women's registration book or maternal and child health book. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Spearman rank correlation test, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: Most respondents demonstrated a good method of iron tablet consumption (26/46; 56.5%), while 19 (41.3%) demonstrated a sufficient method and 1 (2.2%) demonstrated a poor method. Most respondents had no anemia (30/46; 65.2%), while 11 (23.9%) had mild anemia and 5 (10.9%) had moderate anemia. The Spearman rank correlation analysis showed a statistically significant moderate association between the method of iron tablet consumption and anemia status (rₛ=0.437; p=0.002). Conclusions: The method of iron tablet consumption was significantly associated with anemia status among second-trimester pregnant women. Strengthening practical education on the correct method of consuming iron tablets during antenatal care may support efforts to prevent maternal anemia. Further studies with larger samples and direct monitoring of consumption practices are recommended.