UTILIZATION OF ANTENATAL CARE AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN AT JOOTRH

Abstract

Introduction: Antenatal care (ANC) is a crucial component of maternal healthcare, ensuring the well-being of pregnant women and their unborn children. However, the utilization of ANC services has remained a challenge in many developing countries, including Kenya. Aim of the study: The study investigated the factors influencing the utilization of antenatal care among women at JOOTRH in Kenya. Methodology: The study was conducted among pregnant women aged between 18 and 45 years who were seeking ANC services at JOOTRH. It ran for one month and employed quantitative approaches to gather comprehensive data on the factors affecting ANC utilization. Questionnaires were used to collect data, and the sample size was 126. Key objectives included assessing the demographic, socio-economic, and cultural determinants of ANC utilization, as well as perceived barriers and facilitators to accessing ANC services at JOOTRH. By understanding the factors that influenced the utilization of ANC services, the study aimed to inform policymakers of interventions that could enhance the quality and accessibility of antenatal care in the JOOTRH catchment area. The results of the study contributed to the improvement of maternal and child health outcomes in the region and served as a basis for informed decision making by healthcare providers, policymakers, and stakeholders. Data analysis: Data were analyzed using SPSS version 1.0.0.1406. The categorical variables were presented as frequencies with percentages and displayed through tables and graphs. The study provided unique information on key factors impacting ANC utilization