CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
The 2020 Statistical Report on Women and Men by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals that pregnant women in the northern states of Nigeria receive less antenatal care compared to their counterparts in the southern regions of the country. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that each pregnant woman undergoes a minimum of four (4) antenatal care (ANC) visits to the hospital, as stated by Okonofua et al. (2018). The initial appointment is anticipated to occur between the 8th and 12th week of the pregnancy. Subsequently, the second appointment is scheduled between the 24th and 26th week, the third visit at the 32nd week, and the fourth visit between the 36th and 38th week. The objective is to enhance the result of pregnancy and optimise the well-being of the newborn (Oladapo et al., 2016). According to a study by Yaya et al. (2018), around 56.8% of women in Nigeria typically make at least four visits to the hospital for prenatal care during their pregnancy. 15 out of the 20 northern states had a lower proportion of women attending prenatal clinics compared to the national average. All the states in the northwestern region, namely, belong to this category.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that prenatal care serves as a means to implement various programmes and programmes. An intervention called "prevention and case management of maternal malaria" aims to address the problem of maternal malaria, which affects at least 25 million pregnancies annually and leads to an estimated 2 to 15 percent of cases of maternal anaemia (Babalola & Fatusi, 2009). Maternal anaemia, along with other undiagnosed and untreated diseases in the mother, leads to the occurrence of low birth weight (LBW) and preterm birth. These factors are associated with increased infant mortality and hindered child development. According to the World Health Organisation, maternal malaria infection alone is responsible for over 30 percent of preventable causes of low birth weight during pregnancy. Consequently, infants born to women who do not receive sufficient prenatal care are at a higher risk of experiencing neonatal mortality (the death of a baby within 28 days of birth) or infant mortality (the death of a kid within the first year of life). The Northwest area of Nigeria has the lowest number of visits for antenatal care, which has had a negative impact on both the maternal mortality rate and the child mortality rate, including neonatal deaths and deaths of children under the age of 5. Additionally, the Northwest region has the lowest delivery facility rate at 16%, as well as the highest rates of child death for both children under 5 years old and newborn cases.
An prenatal care visit serves the purpose of not only monitoring the well-being of the mother and foetus, but also identifying and assessing any possible issues. The study conducted by Srivastava et al. (2015) offers women essential knowledge on diet and health requirements throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. Additionally, it enables healthcare providers to effectively handle both infection and obstetric problems. Furthermore, the pregnant woman receives essential vaccinations, medication, and vitamins during the ANC visit. During their ANC visit, women are also educated on health behaviours during pregnancy, pregnancy danger signs, and receive information on family planning (Azuh et al., 2017). Available data indicates that the northern region of the country possesses an adequate number of health facilities. However, due to carelessness, poor road conditions, significant distances, transportation challenges, and insufficient money, women in the north have been unable to attend a minimum of four antenatal care appointments (Ntoimo et al., 2019). Additional factors include the perception of substandard care, such as extended waiting periods, inadequate availability of medications and supplies, insufficiently trained healthcare professionals, inconsistent facility hours, absentee staff, and instances of mistreatment by skilled personnel. Other factors include misinterpreting indicators of pregnancy difficulties, lack of support from partners, inability to afford services despite cheap expenses, and unexpected fees paid by staff.
Statement of the Problem
In Jere Local Government Area of Borno State, access to adequate antenatal care services is crucial for ensuring maternal and infant health. However, the quality and availability of these services may vary, impacting the overall health outcomes in the region. Despite efforts to improve healthcare services, there are concerns about the impact of poor antenatal care on maternal and infant mortality rates in Jere Local Government Area. Understanding the factors contributing to this situation is essential for developing effective interventions.
Objectives of the Study
To find out the maternal conditions associated with lack of antenatal care.
To find out to what extent are the residents of Jere LGA aware of antenatal care
To determine the factors limiting antenatal care accessibility in Jere LGA.
Research Questions
What are the maternal conditions associated with lack of antenatal care?
To what extent are the residents of Jere LGA aware of antenatal care?
What are the factors limiting antenatal care accessibility in Jere LGA?
Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the existing knowledge by highlighting the specific challenges and consequences of poor antenatal care in a specific geographic area. The findings can inform policy and healthcare interventions aimed at improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses specifically on Jere Local Government Area in Borno State and may not represent the situation in other regions. Limitations include potential data availability constraints and the need for careful interpretation of findings due to the complex nature of healthcare systems.
Definition of Terms
Antenatal Care: Healthcare services provided to pregnant women before childbirth, including medical check-ups, education, and support.
Maternal Mortality: The death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management. Infant Mortality: The death of an infant before their first birthday, typically measured per 1,000 live births in a given population and time period.
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