Factors Motivating Early Antenatal Care Attendance in Lesotho: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Early antenatal care is key to the World Health Organization’s strategy to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. However, the rate of early antenatal attendance remains low in Lesotho. Few studies have been conducted on the reasons for late antenatal care attendance, but there is a dearth of information on the factors motivating early antenatal care in Lesotho. Methods: A qualitative, exploratory and descriptive design study was conducted to explore and describe the factors motivating women to attend antenatal care services before 16 weeks gestation. The study was conducted at a healthcare centre in Lesotho, where 14 participants were purposely selected, and data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used following Tesch’s protocol. Results: Six themes were identified as the factors motivating early antenatal attendance in Lesotho, namely 1) confirmation of pregnancy, 2) concern for foetal well-being, 3) optimising maternal well-being, 4) awareness raising through health education, 5) motivation from family and friends and 6) cultural and social expectations. The findings from this study can inform the development of interventions to promote early antenatal care attendance in Lesotho and reduce maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality.