Factors influencing utilization of antenatal care services among women of reproductive age group in Uganda

Abstract

Antenatal care attendance is key in averting maternal deaths. It ensures good health for every pregnant woman and her unborn baby. This study intended to identify the factors influencing utilization of Antenatal Care services among women of reproductive age in Uganda. It assessed the relationship between socio-economic and demographic factors and utilization of ANC services. The study used secondary data collected by UBOS during the Uganda. Demographic and Health Survey of 2016. The data was analyzed using Stata statistical software. Analysis included univariate analysis by percentage distribution, bivariate by measure of association and multivariate by logistic regression. Study findings indicated that a higher proportion (79%) of women had attended ANC for less than four times and more than a quarter (28%) of the respondents were from Eastern Uganda. A higher proportion (43%) of the women were poor and (30%) of the women were in the age group of 20-24 years. The majority (61%) had acquired primary education as their highest level and (78%) of the women resided in rural areas. From bivariate analysis, age, residence, wealth status, education and region were statistically associated with number of visits for ANC. Multivariate analysis showed that education, regions and wealth index were significant determinants of number of visits for ANC in Uganda. Women in the age group of 35-39 were found to be more likely to visit hospitals for ANC services than those in the age group of 15-19 years. The researcher recommends education programs for all Ugandans. These programs should include health education as a key component especially for adolescents and other young people. Increasing access to health services by constructing health centres that can be accessible to all people in all regions with special consideration for rural areas that may have transportation challenges.