| dc.description.abstract | This study was carried out in Kilome Division of Eastern Kenya with the overall objective of
exploring the factors that determine the utilization of antenatal care services among women of
child bearing age. It was designed to answer the following questions: how does the multiplicity
of roles influence women's utilization of antenatal health care services? ; To what extent does
the distance from health facilities determine utilization of ANC in the study area? ; How does the
mother's economic status influence the use of ANC in Kilome Division? The specific objectives
were to: examine the impact of women's multiple roles on the utilization of the antenatal care
services in Kilome Division; assess the extent to which distance from health services influence
the rates of service utilization in the study area; and, to determine the influence of the mother's
economic status on the utilization of the available maternal health care services in the division.
The health care utilization model was adopted to guide the study.
The study employed a descriptive and cross-sectional design. A convenient sample of 100
women of child bearing age (15-49) was used to generate the necessary information. Data were
collected using a standardized questionnaire, focus group discussions, key informant interviews
and direct observation. Survey data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social
Sciences (SPSS) computer software and the findings presented in tables of frequencies and
percentages as well as pie-charts. On the other hand, non-computerized qualitative methods were
used to analyze data obtained through focus group discussions and key informant interviews.
These data were analyzed thematically and interpreted on the basis of the study objectives.
Verbatim reporting was used to present some of the qualitative findings.
The study revealed that almost all (94%) of the women in the study area had had at least one
antenatal visit during their recent pregnancy. ,Most of the antenatal care (ANC) attendants (69%)
made their first visit during their second and third trimester of pregnancy. Out of the antenatal
care users, close to two thirds (63%) had less than the four recommended antenatal contacts. The
significant factors that were found to influence utilization of antenatal care services in the study
area include: occupation and income levels of the respondents, transport costs, service charges,
waiting time, lack of somebody to relieve them of household chores, lack of decision making
powers of the women and the value women.attach to antenatal care services. Other factors
included the fear women have of the HIV test and fear of injections. On the other hand, distance
and the roles women play at the household did not seem to significantly contribute to the poor
antenatal care utilization.
Based on the above findings, it is recommended that the ministries concerned with health should
mount campaigns to educate women and the community about the importance of early entry into
the antenatal care and consistent attendance. This will promote good health and positive
pregnancy outcome among all women irrespective of their economic status. A more concerted
effort is also required for promoting the integration of HIV testing into antenatal care services . | en |
