Background of the Study
Maternal health remains a critical aspect of public health, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where maternal mortality rates are among the highest in the world (WHO, 2024). Bauchi State, like many other regions in Nigeria, faces significant maternal health challenges, including high maternal mortality and morbidity rates. These issues are often linked to low levels of maternal health awareness, inadequate antenatal care (ANC) attendance, and socio-economic factors (Eze et al., 2023).
Maternal health awareness encompasses knowledge about prenatal care, nutrition, safe delivery practices, and postpartum care. Studies have shown that women who are well-informed about maternal health are more likely to seek medical attention during pregnancy, leading to better pregnancy outcomes (Adepoju et al., 2024). However, in Bauchi State, many women lack access to essential maternal health information, which affects their ability to make informed decisions about their health and that of their unborn children (NCDC, 2023).
Factors such as education level, cultural beliefs, and healthcare accessibility play crucial roles in determining maternal health awareness and its impact on pregnancy outcomes. In rural areas of Bauchi State, traditional birth practices often take precedence over medically supervised deliveries, increasing the risks of complications during childbirth (Ibrahim & Yusuf, 2023). Addressing this gap in maternal health knowledge and ensuring that women receive timely and adequate healthcare can significantly reduce maternal and neonatal mortality rates.
This study aims to assess the level of maternal health awareness among women in Bauchi State and evaluate its influence on pregnancy outcomes. By identifying the key factors affecting maternal health awareness, this research will provide recommendations for improving maternal and neonatal health in the state.
Statement of the Problem
Despite efforts to improve maternal health in Nigeria, Bauchi State continues to experience high rates of maternal and neonatal complications. Limited awareness of maternal health practices has been identified as a major contributing factor to poor pregnancy outcomes in the state (WHO, 2023). Many pregnant women lack adequate knowledge about antenatal care, safe delivery practices, and postnatal care, leading to preventable maternal and infant deaths (Eze et al., 2024).
The Nigerian government and health organizations have introduced initiatives to improve maternal health education. However, the effectiveness of these interventions remains uncertain due to cultural barriers, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and low literacy levels among women in Bauchi State. Without empirical data on the relationship between maternal health awareness and pregnancy outcomes, it is challenging to develop targeted strategies for improving maternal healthcare (Adepoju et al., 2024).
This study seeks to bridge this knowledge gap by assessing the level of maternal health awareness in Bauchi State and examining its impact on pregnancy outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of maternal health awareness among women in Bauchi State.
2. To examine the relationship between maternal health awareness and pregnancy outcomes.
3. To identify the barriers to maternal health education and suggest ways to improve awareness.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of maternal health awareness among women in Bauchi State?
2. How does maternal health awareness influence pregnancy outcomes?
3. What are the barriers to maternal health education in Bauchi State?
Research Hypotheses
1. There is a significant relationship between maternal health awareness and pregnancy outcomes.
2. Higher maternal health awareness leads to improved pregnancy outcomes.
3. Socio-cultural factors significantly influence maternal health awareness in Bauchi State.
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