Awareness and Utilization of Maternal and Child Health Services Among Women of Reproductive Age in Osogbo, Nigeria

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Maternal and child health (MCH) services are crucial for the well-being of mothers and children, particularly in developing countries. However, awareness and utilization of these services can be impacted by various factors including socio-cultural beliefs, education, and access to healthcare. This study aims to examine the awareness and utilization of MCH services among women of reproductive age residing in Osogbo, Osun State. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted, involving 250 women of reproductive age selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, awareness of MCH services, and utilization of these services. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: Awareness was high, with 232 (92.8%) participants aware of antenatal care (ANC) and 227 (90.8%) aware of child immunizations. Utilization rates were also high; 210 (84.0%) had ANC during their last pregnancy, and 207 (82.8%) immunized their last child. Major barriers included unavailability of vaccines (30, 12.0%), distance to the immunization site (54, 21.6%), lack of awareness of the need for immunization (11, 4.4%), fear of side reactions (7, 2.8%), absence of the vaccinator (2, 0.8%), postponement of the immunization (2, 0.8%), financial issues (4, 1.6%), inconvenient timing of immunization (7, 2.8%), lack of confidence in vaccines (1, 0.4%), and unfriendly vaccine providers (2, 0.8%). Utilization was significantly associated with age (OR: 2.34, p= 0.003, C.I. = 1.34 - 4.10), religion (OR = 0.33, p = 0.015, C.I. = 0.13 - 0.82), and awareness (OR: 3.99, p= 0.023, C.I. = 0.38 - 4.25). CONCLUSION: While awareness and utilization of MCH services are generally high among women in Osogbo Metropolis, significant barriers still exist. There is a need for targeted interventions to address these barriers and improve access to MCH services. Enhancing education, improving service integration, and addressing logistical and financial obstacles are crucial for improving maternal and child health outcomes in this region.