Access to antenatal care services: experiences of teenage mothers in Boroboro east parish, Adeko-kwok subcounty, Lira district

Abstract

Globally, Women are advised to go for 8 or more antenatal visits for a healthy and safe delivery. Very many tests are done during such visits and those with complications kept on watch. This research was carried out in Boroboro East parish, Adeko-kwok sub county, Lira district. The significance of this research was to understand the teenage mothers’ experiences that influenced their uptake on antenatal care access. This study utilized a cross sectional study design. This study also applied a qualitative approach. Data was collected using Focus group discussion guide, key informants’ interviews and in-depth interviews where open ended questions were asked and data was analysed thematically and presented in a descriptive form. The research findings indicated that the nature of jobs done by teenage mothers, their spouses’ employment status, low-income status, low education level as being some of the livelihood experiences. Among the social experiences included; peer influence, support from family, social perception and awareness on the availability of the services. The study also revealed the experiences at the facility such as unprofessionalism by the mid-wives, inadequate facilities, and untimely delivery of services. These are the experiences that influenced uptake on antenatal care by teenage mothers. There are several barriers that affect uptake on antenatal care services by teenage mothers including livelihood, social and facility experiences. Combined efforts from various stakeholders would help curb such, as pertains uptake on antenatal care. Recommendations: Parents should guide on key matters such as accessing antenatal care, hold sex education with their teenagers, educate or skill the teenage mothers so as they can be independent. It is important for the government and community leaders to engage the teenage mothers on programs aimed at improving the wellbeing economically through social economic enterprises as these would enhance and improve their livelihood experiences. Workshops and seminars could enhance capacity building of antenatal care providers aimed at enhancing professional ethnics and service delivery.