The role of routine obstetric sonography in promoting united nations’ sustainable development goal three in ugandan rural areas.

Abstract

Introduction: Routine obstetric sonography plays a crucial role in promoting SDG 3 by ensuring healthy lives and well-being for pregnant women and their babies, particularly in rural areas. However, limited access and affordability of obstetric ultrasound services pose significant challenges in achieving this goal in Uganda. Objective: The researched aimed to investigate the role of routine obstetric sonography in promoting SDG 3 in rural areas of Uganda with a case study of Budadiri Health IV. The study focused on assessing the impact of obstetric ultrasound on pregnancy outcomes, access to services and affordability. Methodology: A sample size of 180 pregnant women was interviewed using a questionnaire at Budadiri Health centre IV, in Sironko District. The questionnaire covered various aspects including demographics, obstetric ultrasound awareness, outcomes, and affordability. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings: Results indicate that only 25.6% of the respondents received obstetric ultrasound services during their current pregnancy. Among these, 50 % reported experiencing complications during pregnancy, while 42.4% had ever encountered complications during delivery. Obstetric ultrasound identified potential complications in 65.6% of cases during pregnancy. However, significant challenges related to availability and affordability were evident. A substantial proportion of women (74.4%) were unable to access obstetric ultrasound services at their preferred health facilities. Affordability; Conclusion: Findings underscore the potential benefits of routine obstetric sonography in improving pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in rural areas of Uganda. However, limited access and affordability of obstetric ultrasound services pose significant barriers to achieving SDG 3. Addressing the challenges related to access and affordability is essential to policy makers, healthcare providers and stakeholders in developing strategies to enhance the provision and utilization of routine obstetric sonography, thereby contributing to achievement of SDG 3 in Ugandan rural areas.