Household cost of antenatal care and delivery services in a rural community of Kaduna state, northwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Maternal mortality remains a leading cause of death among women of reproductive age. While Nigeria has only two percent of the global population, it contributes 10% to the global maternal mortality burden. Antenatal care (ANC) reduces the incidence of maternal mortality. However, financial capability affects access to antenatal care. Thus, the rural poor are at a higher risk of maternal mortality. Materials and Methods: A cross‑sectional descriptive study involving 135 women (pregnant women and those who are 6 weeks postpartum). Structured interviewer‑administered questionnaires were used for data collection. Data analysis was carried out using statistical package for social sciences software (version 17). Results: The average amount spent on booking and initial laboratory investigations were N77 (half a dollar) and N316 ($2), respectively. Per ANC visit, average amount spent on drugs and transportation were N229 ($1.5) and N139 ($0.9) respectively. For delivery, the average amount spent was N1500 ($9.6). On an average, ANC plus delivery cost about N_3,365.00 ($22). There was a statistically significant association between husband’s income and ANC attendance (X² = 2.451, df = 2, P = 0.048). Conclusion: Cost of Antenatal care and delivery services were not catastrophic but were a barrier to accessing antenatal care and facility‑based delivery services in the study area. ANC attendance was associated with the income of household heads. Pro‑poor policies and actions are needed to address this problem, as it will go a long way in reducing maternal mortality in this part of the country.

Keywords: Antenatal care, cost, delivery services, household, Nigeria, rural community

Nigerian Medical Journal | Vol. 54 | Issue 2 | March-April | 2013