Barriers to the use of facility-based birthing services in rural northern Ghana: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Use of facility-based birthing can reduce maternal mortality rates; however, service uptake is still poor in rural Ghana. Aims: To analyse key stakeholders' views on barriers to facility-based birthing in the Bongo district of rural northern Ghana. Methods: The study used a qualitative design. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit 45 women from three communities for the study, plus four health professionals and two policy-makers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Findings: This study revealed major barriers to the use of facility-based birthing services, including an inability to pay for transport and items for childbirth, poor quality of services, impolite staff, long distance, and the influence of significant others. Health professionals and policy-makers identified staff/facility inadequacy and general logistic constraints as major barriers. Conclusions: Women should be empowered through education campaigns, a review of the health insurance scheme and realignment of the facility protocols.