Factors Associated with the Utilisation of Postnatal Care Services in a Rural Community in Abia State

Abstract

Background: Postnatal period is as important as pregnancy and childbirth. Half of all postnatal deaths occur during the first week after birth. During postnatal period, the mother’s body undergoes major changes from pregnancy. Therefore, there is need for continuity of care after birth to prevent and manage complications that may arise during postnatal. This study was carried out to determine factors associated with the utilisation of postnatal care services in a rural community in Abia state.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from March 2019 to May 2019 among women living in Amuvi community in Arochukwu Local Government Area (LGA)of Abia state.  The study participants were women of reproductive age group (15-49 years) who had at least been pregnant once, carried pregnancy to full maturity and delivered at term. Data was collected using pre-tested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire.

Results: Four hundred and sixty-seven (467) women participated in the study. Four hundred and forty-three (95.1%) women attended postnatal visits while 23 (4.7%) did not. Reasons given for attending postnatal care by respondents were; routine check-ups, counselling on family planning, appointment with health workers 54 (11.7%), same day appointment as child’s immunisation, child was sick.  Respondents who were married were 2 times (AOR=2.587, 95% CI:-0.878-0.120) more likely to use postnatal care services than single mothers. Mothers who had an occupation were 2 times (AOR=2.897, 95% CI: 0.051-0.267) more likely to use postnatal care services than those who did not. Husband’s occupation was statistically significant with utilisation of postnatal services.

Conclusion:  Utilisation of postpartum care services was high among women in Amuvi community of Abia state. PNC services utilisation were associated with marital status, mother’s occupation and husband’s educational status.