Factors Affecting The Utilization Of Antenatal Care Services In New Juaben South Municipality In Eastern Region

Abstract

Background: It is estimated that a global average of 500,000 deaths, caused by various pregnancy and childbirth complications, are recorded every year. In 2013, 99% of maternal deaths occurred in low-income countries, with sub-Saharan Africa contributing about 62%. These maternal deaths attributed in part to the lack of quality antenatal care services for pregnant women. Objective: The main objective of the study was to determine the factors that affect the utilization of antenatal care services in New Juaben South. Method: The study employed an explanatory cross-sectional, mixed methods design. The study targeted 590 women within reproductive age and administrative staff of healthcare facilities. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, as well as face-to- face interviews with women attending child welfare clinics, and administrative staff in four healthcare facilities. Four focus group discussions were held with women. Systematic sampling method was employed to select women who attended child welfare clinics. Logistic regression analysis was conducted using STATA version 15.0 and statistical significance of results were determined at 95% confidence level. Results: The mean age of the women who participated in the study was 28.0 years ± 6.8SD. The antenatal care utilization rate was 29.6%. The age of the mother (AOR = 0.4; 95% CI: 0.1, 0.9) and (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.5, 6.8), marital status (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.3, 4.5), religion (AOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.2, 9.8), place of residence (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.6, 5.9), educational status (AOR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.1, 11.2), timing of start of antenatal care visits (AOR = 4.4 95% CI: 1.8, 10.9), time spent at the facility (AOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.2, 5.4) and (AOR: 8.7, 95% CI: 2.4, 30.7) and the distance to the nearest health facility (AOR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.8, 8.1) were significantly associated with utilization of ANC services. Conclusion: The factors identified in this study as influencing ANC utilization included age, marital status, place of residence, educational status, timing of start of antenatal care visits, time spent at the facility, and the distance to the nearest health facility. The use of ANC is a fundamental entry point for improved maternal health services. Strategies that facilitate an improved uptake of ANC services should take into consideration the identified factors.