Attitude, Knowledge and Coverage of Maternal Health Care Services Among Women of Reproductive Age: a Case Study of Kayole South Ward, Nairobi County.

Abstract

This study sought to explore the attitude, knowledge and coverage of maternal health services among women of reproductive age (18-49 years) in Kayole south ward, Nairobi County. The objectives of the study were to; establish the knowledge level on maternal heath among women of reproductive age; assess the attitude of women of reproductive age towards Maternal Health services offered to them and identify the coverage of maternal health services within Kayole south ward. The study used Health Belief Model and Social Cognitive Theory to explain perceptions, attitudes, knowledge, and coverage practices in maternal health. The research used mixed-methods design, with both qualitative and quantitative data collections from respondents. Interviewer-guided questionnaires were used for the quantitative data while in-depth interview guide was used for qualitative data. The study target population was of women of reproductive age between 18-49 years, with a sample size of 254 respondents. A total of four technical interviewees were selected through purposive sampling technique for the in-depth interviews. From the findings, the researcher can state that women of reproductive age in Kayole south ward Nairobi County were aware about maternal health care services. The study established that most women of reproductive age knew the importance of attending Antenatal Care from a health facility and more so they could identify danger signs, before delivery but not after delivery. The attitude of the women towards maternal health care was generally good as a result of the services they received and the coverage was sufficient within the area of study. From the study, it is realized that woman maternal care attendance was influenced by the perceived benefits and attitude towards the health care workers who served them and with the extent of the coverage, which enables access of the health services. The research recommends that health professionals implement respectful maternal care which enhances the clients‟ attitudes towards seeking the services which intern boosts the coverage and quality improvement. Reduction of disrespect and abuse enhance human rights and consequently progress towards achieving millennium development goal (MDG5) which is also a priority under goal 3 of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) agenda through 2030. Both levels of government at county and national level should have proper policies on maternal health, and departments within the ministry whose focus is strengthening aspects of maternal health care service delivery and accountability especially in free public health facilities, to ensure sustainable quality services and working environment. It is recommended that a study on embedding quality on maternal health care services is very vital especially in the devolved systems of health care governance to ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing for all at all ages.