Knowledge and Utilization of Antenatal Care among Women of Reproductive Age in Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the knowledge and utilisation of antenatal healthcare services among women of childbearing age in Obingwa Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, with 384 respondents selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that covered socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of antenatal care, utilisation patterns, and factors influencing service uptake. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages. The findings showed that most respondents were aged 26–35 years and had at least secondary education. Awareness of antenatal care was generally high, and many respondents recognised its importance for promoting healthy pregnancy, early detection of complications, and safe delivery. However, knowledge gaps were observed regarding the recommended number of antenatal visits and the appropriate timing of first booking. Utilisation of antenatal care services was evident across key routine components, with blood pressure monitoring and urine testing being the most commonly accessed services. Nurses were the most frequently consulted healthcare providers. Major sources of antenatal information included social media and radio, indicating the influence of mass communication channels. Key barriers affecting utilisation included distance to healthcare facilities, fear of medical procedures, and financial constraints. The study concludes that although knowledge and utilisation of antenatal services are encouraging in the study area, detailed knowledge and access-related barriers require attention to improve maternal healthcare uptake.