Patterns of interpregnancy intervals among mothers in Dobi community in Gwagwalada area council of the Federal Capital Territory Nigeria

Abstract

The Interpregnancy interval (IPI) is a crucial factor influencing maternal and child health. Both short and long IPIs have been linked to adverse health outcomes for mothers and infants, particularly in low-resource settings. This study aimed to examine the pattern of Interpregnancy intervals among mothers in Dobi Community, Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja. To describe the pattern of Interpregnancy intervals among mothers in Dobi Community, Gwagwalada Area Council. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 381 women in Dobi, Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja, using a mixed-method approach. Quantitative data were collected through structured interviewer-administered questionnaires, while qualitative insights were gathered through focus group discussions (FGD) and in-depth interviews (IDI) with healthcare professionals, mothers, and fathers. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the pattern of Interpregnancy intervals. The mean age of the mothers was 33.66 (± 7.142) years, with a mean age at marriage of 20.96 (± 3.445) years. The findings showed that 92% of the mothers were above the age of 18, 63% lived patrilocally, and 91.9% were in polygamous marriages. Additionally, 63.5% were Muslims, and 61.7% had completed only primary education or had no formal education. The median monthly household income was ₦30,000. About half (47%) of the women had Interpregnancy intervals of less than 24 months. A significant proportion of mothers in Dobi had short Interpregnancy intervals of less than 24 months. The findings highlight the need for community-specific interventions to promote optimal birth spacing and improve maternal and child health outcomes.