Antenatal Determinants and Birth Outcomes among First-time Mothers in Tamale Metropolis

Aim: Early Antenatal Care initiation among first-time mothers is crucial for the health of both the baby and mother. Unfavorable birth outcomes are mostly associated with late initiation of antenatal care that is designed to prevent complications associated with childbirth. This study examined the factors that influence antenatal care practices among first-time mothers within Tamale Metropolis.

Methods: The study design was cross-sectional and the study approach was mixed method. A simple random sampling technique was used to select the health facilities. The data collection techniques were survey and interview and the tools were questionnaire and interview guide. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20, and thematic content analysis for quantitative and qualitative data respectively.

Results: Results showed that 80% of first-time mothers visited the centers for antenatal care services more than four times. Factors influencing antenatal care patronage include the distance from facilities, support from family, and the educational level of pregnant women. Again, the majority of first-time mothers who patronized antenatal care services throughout their respective pregnancy terms delivered full-term babies. The age of the respondents was significantly associated with antenatal care attendance, while the presence of a significant correlation between occupation and patronage of antenatal care services.

Conclusion: The study thus recommends that all stakeholders in health, including frontline health providers, should emphasize the effectiveness of adequate antenatal care attendance and the need for early initiation. Additionally, Ghana Health Service needs to develop programs to strengthen Focus antenatal care and counseling on birth preparedness.