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Socio-Cultural and Healthcare Barriers to Timely Antenatal Care Initiation Among Rural Ghanaian Women
Article Number: SIS954210AI121124
12th November, 2024
Author(s):
Emmanuel Asomaning, Rev. Sr. Judith Beatrice Magbity HHCJ
Abstract:
This study investigates
the factors influencing late initiation of antenatal care (ANC) among pregnant
women in the Wa East District of Ghana, where maternal health outcomes remain a
public health priority. Despite extensive evidence linking timely ANC to
reduced maternal and neonatal mortality, late ANC attendance persists,
especially in low-resource settings. Employing a facility-based cross-sectional
study design, 405 pregnant women attending ANC were surveyed to identify socio-demographic,
cultural, and healthcare service-related determinants of late ANC initiation.
Findings reveal that older age, lower educational levels, farming occupations,
and male-dominated decision-making significantly delay ANC attendance. Additionally,
negative healthcare provider attitudes and geographical barriers further impede
early ANC uptake. Regression analysis indicates that Muslim women and those
with higher parity had markedly higher odds of late ANC initiation, while
respectful healthcare provider attitudes and health education interventions
reduced these odds. The study underscores the multifaceted barriers to timely
ANC, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive, community-based
interventions involving male partners in maternal health education. Strategies
to enhance respectful maternal care and improve healthcare access in remote
settings are recommended as critical to fostering early ANC initiation. By
addressing both socio-cultural and service-related barriers, this research
contributes valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and
community leaders aiming to improve maternal healthcare access and outcomes.
Future research should explore the impact of male-inclusive health education
and community health worker outreach on ANC attendance, fostering a robust
understanding of effective maternal health interventions in rural Ghana and
similar low-resource settings.