Mulondo Seani Adrinah
University of Venda, South Africa
Title: Behavioural factors associated with late presentation at Antenatal care in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Biography
Biography: Mulondo Seani Adrinah
Abstract
Globally, approximately 70% of pregnant mothers access Antenatal Care (ANC) at least once in pregnancy. In South Africa (SA), approximately 95% - 97% of pregnant mothers attend ANC although majority present late after 20 weeks of pregnancy and some may have only one visit due to various factors. The purpose of this study was to assess behavioural factors associated with late presentation at ANC in Limpopo Province, SA. A qualitative, exploratory approach was used. Population comprised of pregnant mothers who were attending ANC at Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities. Non-probability, purposive sampling method was used to sample 40 pregnant mothers. Data were collected using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data were analysed qualitatively through open coding method. Findings revealed that knowledge deficiency related to Basic Antenatal Care (BANC), advanced maternal age of 40 years and above feel ashamed of pregnancy, ignorance and laziness of pregnant mothers to attend ANC services and unhealthy lifestyle such as abuse of alcohol were associated with late presentation at ANC. There is a need to develop an intervention programme to increase pregnancy awareness among mothers of child bearing age.