DefinePK

Abstract

Objective: To find out an impact of socio demographic characteristics of women which limit their utilization of antenatal care.
Methodology: Descriptive type of cross sectional survey was directed in rural areas of Muzaffarabad Azad State of Jammu & Kashmir during June to December 2019. Over 500 reproductive age (15-40) women with history of at least one child birth during the study period were included. The systematic sampling technique was used to collect the sample. Questionnaire was comprised of close-ended questions to explore the highlighted issue.
Results: 53.2% (266) of the respondents were found with no antenatal care in the previous pregnancy whereas 27.4% (137) attained first trimester ANC. Out of the total respondents investigated for this study only 16.8% (84) attended 5-6 ANC visits throughout their pregnancy. Slightly higher than two-fifth means (47.4%) women received ANC care from doctor whereas 42.8% (214) received care from traditional birth attendant. Age of women is significantly associated (P value=0.000) with utilization of antenatal care. Utilization of antenatal care by women (below 30 years) old are 0.36 times higher than women above 30 years old. There is significantly association of husband age with utilization of antenatal care. The women of older spouse (above 30 years) old are 3.45 times more likely to have antenatal care throughout antenatal period than whose husbands are below 30 years old. Educational status of women has strong association with ANC utilization as educated women are 5.23 times more likely to receive antenatal care during pregnancy. Place of residence is also significantly associated (P value=0.000) with uptake of antenatal care. Women from rural areas of Muzaffarabad are lagging behind in seeking medical care during pregnancy than the women from urban area. Economical status of household is significantly connected with pursuing of antenatal care.
Conclusion: On the basis of research finding, this is need of hour to focus attention towards women of rural area, as women in rural areas are deprived in all walks of life including education, employment and in decision making regarding health. Furthermore, empowerment of women is a step towards change in her status, particularly in family and society in general. Moreover, empowered women can take health seeking decisions autonomously.