Healthcare‐Seeking Behavioural Practices Among Pregnant Women in Odeda Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Maternal mortality is a global health concern, particularly in developing nations, such as Nigeria. Pregnant women face health challenges and complications, necessitating prompt attention to understand healthcare-seeking behaviours to improve maternal health outcomes. Objective: To assess the healthcare-seeking behavioural practices among pregnant women in Odeda Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at five selected primary healthcare centres in the Odeda Local Government Area. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 20.0 for descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages and chi-square tests to explore the association between sociodemographic characteristics and healthcare-seeking behaviours. Results: Most respondents (94%) were married, with an average age of 27 years. Approximately 48.5% had a secondary education, while 42.5% had tertiary education. A significant number of respondents (78%) were knowledgeable about danger signs during pregnancy, such as vaginal bleeding, high fever and reduced foetal movement. Regarding healthcare-seeking practices, 54.5% of the respondents sought healthcare at hospitals or clinics when they experienced pregnancy complications. However, 18% resorted to praying first, and 22% informed their husbands before taking further action. The decision to seek care was influenced primarily by husbands in 53% of the cases. Conclusion: Sociodemographic factors, such as age of the respondents, gestational age and marital status, influence healthcare-seeking behaviour among pregnant women in the Odeda Local Government Area. Although there is a high knowledge of pregnancy danger signs, timely healthcare actions are needed to reduce maternal mortality rates.