Predictors of Utilisation of Maternal Health Services among Reproductive Aged Women in Ibadan South East Local Government of Oyo State (Published)
Utilisation of maternal health services has been found to be an essential contributor in improvement of health outcomes of mother and child. However, there is still low utilisation in Nigeria which is the major cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. The researcher therefore, investigated predictors of utilisation of maternal health services among reproductive aged women in Ibadan south east local government of Oyo State. The study employed a descriptive method design, 322 women of reproductive age were drawn through purposive sampling techniques from Ibadan South East Local Government Area of Oyo State. One research instrument was used to gather information in this study; which assess maternal health services (antenatal care, labour/delivery, immunization, family planning), and identify enabling factors that influence utilisation of maternal health services. Descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage count, mean and pie chart), and Chi Square were used to analyse the data obtained at 0.05 level of significance. It was found out that majority of the respondent utilised mission and private hospital, majority had proper utilisation of Antenatal Care and immunization services while majority had improper utilisation of labour/delivery and family planning services. Also, 47% of the respondent had adequate enabling factors while 53% had inadequate enabling factors. There was a significant relationship between components of enabling factors and maternal health utilisation. It could therefore, be concluded that if enabling factors of women of reproductive age are taken care of, it will greatly increase their maternal health service patronage. Therefore, Government should make maternal health facilities accessible and affordable.
Keywords: Utilisation, enabling factors, maternal health services, reproductive aged women
Awareness and Utilisation of Family Planning Among Postpartum Women in Ondo State, Nigeria (Published)
This study investigates the awareness and utilisation of family planning among postpartum women attending postnatal clinics in selected health centers in Ifedore Local Government, Ondo State. The objectives include determining sources of information, examining common methods used, and assessing knowledge, utilisation, and perceived attitudes of workers regarding family planning. A descriptive design was employed, and the target population comprised women aged 15 to 49, 1 week–12 months postpartum, accessing child health services from three selected health centers. The sample size of 234 was determined using Cochran’s formula, with data collected through a self-structured questionnaire. Validity and reliability were ensured through expert assessment and a pilot study. Analysis using SPSS 27.0 involved percentages, tables, and chi-square tests. The findings revealed commendable understanding of family planning services among women of reproductive age, although utilisation remained inadequate. Factors contributing to this included low socioeconomic status, religious beliefs, and limited education. Despite these challenges, the study highlights the potential for positive outcomes in the future, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive understanding of family planning services. Recommendations include enhancing community education on the benefits of smaller families and women empowerment, promoting gender balance, and emphasizing immediate initiation of family planning postpartum in healthcare settings. These initiatives aim to address barriers and promote the use of family planning methods among women in the study area.
Keywords: Family Planning, Postpartum Women, Utilisation, awareness