Factors affecting the Utilization of Antenatal Care Services among Pregnant Women at St Paul’s Health Center IV in Kasese District. A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

Abstract

Background: The utilization of Antenatal care services is a major milestone in improving maternal and child health in developing countries, therefore, enhancing the social-economic development of the community. The specific objectives of the study were to assess the health facility factors, social-economic factors maternal related factors affecting the utilization of Antenatal care among pregnant women whereas by pregnant women at St Paul’s health Center IV Kasese District. Methodology: The study design was a descriptive cross-sectional where data was collected using self-administered questionnaires from 100 respondents using simple random sampling and analysis carried out using Microsoft Excel 2010 version. Results: Out of 100 respondents, 54(54%) waited for 30-60 minutes, 87(87%) reported that no health worker had ever shouted at them, 71(71%) said the health workers were polite and welcoming, and 51(51%) rated ANC services as of good quality, 91(91%), had ever been advised by the health workers to initiate ANC,74(74%) had 1-5 dependents. 57(57%) received support from their partners. 72(72%) afforded the required medical tests, 96 (96% ) did not take alcohol, 77(77%) did not have any underlying chronic illness, and 69(69%) did not have a history of any complications in their previous pregnancies, Majority 54(54%) had attained a minimum of secondary level of education. Conclusion: Health facility factors that affected ANC utilization were waiting time, laboratory costs, and attitude of the health workers. Social-economic factors influencing ANC were the mother’s income, financial support from partners, and several dependants. Recommendation: The administration of St Paul’s health center IV in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Public Services should consider recruiting more health workers and encourage men, families, and societies to support antenatal care without discrimination through awareness campaigns.