Concise title: Maternal health service utilization

Abstract

ObjectivesThe objective of this study is to identify the determinants and measure the trends in maternal health-facility based utilization in Bangladesh. This research shows the importance of each variable and their role in utilizing maternity care in Bangladesh. Materials and methodsIn our study, we have analysed BDHS 2004, 2007, 2011 and 2014 data to measure the determinants and trends in maternal health services in Bangladesh, using the binary logistic regression model. ResultsOur study revealed that the variable education of women, place of residence, wealth index, and husband's education have a significant association with the maternal health services utilization. Women who completed higher education were more likely to use antenatal care (AOR = 3.76, CI = 2.07–6.52), skilled birth attendants (AOR = 2.82, CI = 1.96–1.4.08) and postnatal care (AOR = 1.87, CI = 1.31–2.68). Women from urban areas were more likely to use ANC (AOR = 1.30, CI = 1.05–1.60), SBAs (AOR = 1.64, 9 CI = 1.40–1.92) and PNC services (AOR = 1.45, CI = 1.23–1.70) than women from rural areas. Women from the richest households were more likely to use ANC (AOR = 2.30, CI = 1.80–2.95), SBAs (AOR = 2.23, CI = 1.83–2.71) and PNC (AOR = 1.78, CI = 1.47–2.16) than poor women. ConclusionMaternal health service utilization should be more targeted towards the rural women in Bangladesh as there seems a high inconsistency in service utilization among urban and rural mothers. ANC is an essential entry point for the ensuing application of delivery and PNC services. So, it is recommended to promote women's education and empowerment with improved geographical access and strong ANC policies.