Background of the Study
Antenatal care (ANC) plays a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of both mothers and their babies during pregnancy. In Kaduna State, like many parts of Nigeria, there has been a growing emphasis on improving access to and utilization of antenatal care services to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality rates (Usman et al., 2024). ANC services provide essential interventions, including screenings, counseling, and medical management, which can prevent complications during pregnancy and childbirth. However, despite the known benefits of ANC, the level of utilization and its direct impact on pregnancy outcomes in Kaduna State remains a subject of ongoing investigation.
Statement of the Problem
Although antenatal care is widely recognized as a critical component in reducing maternal and infant mortality, the utilization rates in Kaduna State are still suboptimal. This is largely due to factors such as limited access to healthcare facilities, cultural practices, and socio-economic constraints. As a result, many women do not receive the full spectrum of ANC services, which affects pregnancy outcomes such as complications, preterm birth, and low birth weight.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the utilization of antenatal care services among pregnant women in Kaduna State.
2. To examine the relationship between antenatal care utilization and pregnancy outcomes in Kaduna State.
3. To identify barriers to full antenatal care utilization in the region.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of antenatal care utilization among pregnant women in Kaduna State?
2. How does antenatal care utilization influence pregnancy outcomes in Kaduna State?
3. What are the barriers to accessing full antenatal care services in Kaduna State?
Research Hypotheses
1. The level of antenatal care utilization is low among pregnant women in Kaduna State.
2. There is a significant relationship between antenatal care utilization and improved pregnancy outcomes in Kaduna State.
3. Socio-economic and cultural factors significantly influence the utilization of antenatal care services in Kaduna State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on pregnant women in both rural and urban areas of Kaduna State. Limitations may include the variability in healthcare facilities and the challenges of collecting data in remote areas.
Definitions of Terms
• Antenatal Care (ANC): A set of health services provided to pregnant women aimed at monitoring the health of both the mother and fetus, preventing complications, and ensuring safe delivery.
• Pregnancy Outcomes: The result of a pregnancy, including maternal and neonatal health indicators such as birth weight, gestational age, and maternal complications.
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