Utilisation of antenatal care (ANC) services and associated factors among tribal mothers in Central India: A cross-sectional study

Authors: Dr. Dinesh Kumar

DOI: 10.18231/j.jchm.13632.1760769655

Keywords: Antenatal care, Advice during pregnancy,Tribal mother,India

Abstract: Objective: To report the utilisation of antenatal care (ANC) services and the responsible factors associated with the recommended four ANC visits among tribal mothers in India. Methods: Cross-sectional data were collected from 511 tribal mothers who were currently pregnant and childbirth in the past 12 months. Socio-demographic, maternal healthcare services and health system-related data were collected. Descriptive analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with not taking the recommended four ANC visits. Results: Out of 511 mothers, only 68.9% of the mothers received four antenatal care (ANC) check-ups, tetanus toxoid immunisation (98%), and Consumption of 90 iron folic acid (IFA) tablets (36.9%). Reception of advice on pregnancy care regarding a balanced diet to newborn care was reported to be adequate, but the health workers' home visits during pregnancy were inadequate (58%). The reasons behind not taking the four ANC visits were mainly due to lack of awareness (73%), followed by better care at home (48%), and family not allowing to go to the hospital (34%), etc. Conclusion: About one-third of tribal mothers (30.1%) are at risk of not receiving four (ANC) check-ups due to a lack of awareness, poverty and vulnerability. Distance to medical facilities and all-weather roads are a strong correlate of antenatal care visits. Improving outreach health activities and community-based interventions are urgently needed among the tribal community.