SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS INFLUENCING ACCESS TO LATE ANTENATAL CARE ENROLMENT AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN AGED 15-49 YEARS AT NSANGI HEALTH CENTRE III. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background

Antenatal care (ANC) is essential for the health of both mothers and babies. It provides an opportunity for women to receive information and care that can help them have a safe and healthy pregnancy and childbirth. The study aims to assess the socio-demographic factors influencing access to late antenatal care enrolment among pregnant women aged 15-49 years at Nsangi Health Centre III.

Methodology

The study employed a cross-sectional design, utilizing quantitative data collection methods. The study targeted patients in the ANC department. A sample size of 80 respondents was determined using Cochran's formula. The study utilized a simple random sampling technique to select respondents. Data analysis was performed using Microsoft Office Excel 2021 and SPSS version 23.

Results

The majority of respondents fell within the age group of 25-35 years, constituting 38 (47.5%). The Catholic religion was the most prevalent with 21 (26.3%). The majority 32 (40.0%) had secondary education. The majority had given birth to between 1 to 4 children, representing 39 (48.8%) of the sample. Health professionals were the most common source of information about antenatal care (32 (40.0%)). Newspapers and radio/television were also significant sources, with 18 (22.5%) and

the internet (13 (16.3%)) for ANC information. (27 (33.8%)) attended more than 4 ANC visits. (29 (36.3%)) were in their 2nd trimester. Majority of respondents (65 (81.3%)) preferred health facilities for delivery.

Conclusion

Age, education level, parity, and religion were the most significant determinants of late antenatal care enrolment.

Recommendation

The government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health, should Develop targeted public health campaigns and educational programs to improve pregnant women's awareness of the importance of timely antenatal care.