Factors Associated with Dropout from Antenatal Care in the Commune of Kpomassè in Benin in 2024: A Descriptive and Analytical Survey

Abstract

Background: Non-attendance and dropout from antenatal care during pregnancy can lead to complications during childbirth, as well as maternal and infant deaths. Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the factors associated with dropout from antenatal care in the commune of Kpomassè in 2024. Methods: A cross-sectional study with descriptive and analytical aims was conducted. Women who had given birth and were residing in the commune of Kpomassè, as well as healthcare personnel from health centres, were eligible for inclusion. Women were selected by four-stage cluster random sampling and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Purposive sampling was used for healthcare personnel, and data were collected using an interview guide. Simple and multiple logistic regression and the chi-squared test were used to identify associated factors. Results: A total of 568 women who had given birth and 4 midwives were included. The median age of the women surveyed was 26 years (IQR: 23–31). The dropout rate from antenatal care was 70.25% (95% CI: [66.34–73.87]). Several factors, including women's poor decision-making capacity (p=0.002), delayed attendance at the first antenatal care visit (p=0.001), and inadequate qualification of nursing staff (p=0.01), explained dropout from antenatal care in the commune of Kpomassè in 2024. Conclusion: Dropout from antenatal care constitutes a major public health issue requiring the implementation of targeted interventions in the commune of Kpomassè.