Determinants of utilization of maternity services in Gidan Igwe, Sokoto, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The provision of antenatal care is regarded as the cornerstone of maternal and perinatal health care especially in developing nations and is expected to have a significant impact on achieving the fifth millennium development goal. The aim of this study was to assess the determinants of utilisation of maternity services in Gidan Igwe, Sokoto. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional descriptive one involving 300 women of child bearing age selected through a systematic sampling technique. Data was collected using a set of semi-structured interviewer and self administered questionnaires. Results: Majority, 214 (71.3%) of the respondents had no formal education, visited a health facility for antenatal care during their last pregnancy, 218 (72.7%) and had their last delivery at home, 190 (63.3%). Of the 190 subjects that delivered at home, 165 (85%) were assisted by Traditional birth attendants (TBAs). Education was statistically significantly associated with ANC attendance and hospital delivery (P=0.0012). Conclusion: Although, a high proportion of the respondents visited health facilities for ANC, only a few of them delivered in these facilities. There is need to increase public awareness on the use of antenatal care services and delivery by skilled attendants.

Keywords

• Antenatal care
• traditional birth attendant delivery
• Sokoto