Title: Analysis of Antenatal care Attendance and Delivery Preferences among Married Women in Iwo Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Ejeh Benedict, Aduke Olufunmilayo Bello Adenike Saliu Morilat, Angela Uwanuakwa
Volume: 9
Issue: 4
Pages: 57-67
Publication Date: 2025/04/28
Abstract:
This study examines antenatal care (ANC) attendance and delivery preferences among married women in Iwo Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria, based on data collected from a field survey conducted in 2024. A significant proportion of respondents (79.5%) delivered their most recent child in a hospital or health facility, highlighting a positive trend toward institutional childbirth. However, 20.5% of women still opted for home deliveries, driven by factors such as financial constraints, lack of transportation, and cultural preferences. Reasons for choosing hospital delivery included the ability of hospitals to manage complications (71.9%) and spousal advice (20.1%), while 56.1% of home births were due to premature labor, often preventing timely access to healthcare facilities. ANC attendance was notably high, with 79.0% of respondents attending ANC services, primarily to monitor pregnancy, check fetal position, prevent complications, and receive immunizations. However, 21.0% did not attend ANC, suggesting barriers such as financial constraints, distance, and lack of support. The study underscores the importance of maternal health education and improving access to healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. It also highlights the need for targeted interventions to reduce home deliveries and increase ANC attendance, addressing the socio-economic and logistical challenges faced by women in the region. Enhanced engagement of men in maternal health decisions and addressing the quality of healthcare facilities are critical for improving maternal and child health outcomes.