FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO LOW UPTAKE OF SKILLED DELIVERY SERVICES IN THE BUIPEILA SUB-DISTRICT, NORTHERN REGION

Abstract

Increasing the proportion of births in health facilities is an important factor in reducing the health risks to both the mother and the baby. Proper medical attention and hygienic conditions during delivery can reduce the risks of complications and infection that can cause morbidity and mortality to both the mother and the baby. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors leading to low facility delivery in the Bilpeila sub district. The study was conducted among 450 three-month postpartum women who were selected using stratified sampling procedures. Quantitative methods were used in gathering the data. About 39.6% initiated ANC in the first trimester, 54. % initiated ANC in the second trimester and 6.1% initiated ANC in the third trimester. About 46% made less than 4 ANC visits whilst 53.5% made 4 or more ANC visits. Majority (58.3%) of the respondents delivered at home whilst 41.7% delivered in health facilities. About 41.7% of the deliveries were conducted by a health professional or skilled birth attendant (doctors/midwife/nurses). Mother in-laws conducted 24.8% deliveries and TBAs conducted 22.6%. About 10.9% of the women delivered by themselves. About 46.3% of the women delivered at home because of the unavailability of health facilities, 20.9% delivered at home because they had no difficulties in their previous deliveries whilst 13.4% delivered at home because of transportation difficulties. Only 8.2% delivered at home because of the cost of delivery pack. Number of ANC visits was positively associated with uptake of skilled delivery services, (p<0.001, χ2= 20.4). Educational level was significant factor that influence the use of skilled delivery services (p<0.001, χ2= 43.2).