Determinants of uptake of PMTCT services by HIV positive mothers accessing care in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV remains a major public health challenge which account for substantial proportion of new HIV infections among children. Global interventional programme such as Prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV has been initiated to protect children from the scourge of HIV pandemics. However, it is faced by multiple challenges in Africa. This study assessed the influencers of PMTCT services uptake among HIV-positive mothers in Akure.METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was employed using quantitative and qualitative design among 300 HIV positive pregnant and lactating mothers. Information on knowledge, awareness, and factors influencing uptake of PMTCT were collected using semi structured questionnaire. Data was analysed using SPSS v.20.RESULT: The average age of the respondents was 31.07 ±5.0 years with 77% being married. Majority (83%) were aware of PMTCT. The uptake level of PMTCT services was 89%. Knowledge on PMTCT (χ2 = 9.3, P value 0.002), Partner Support (χ2= 5.09, p=0.024), Religion (Christianity) (χ2=7.264, p=0.007), Occupation (unskilled) (χ2=12.6, p=0.002) were factors found to be significantly associated with the uptake of PMTCT services among HIV positive mothers.CONCLUSION: The uptake of PMTCT services among HIV positive mothers was high in Akure. Knowledge of the respondent on PMTCT, Partner Support, Religion and occupation were factors that influenced level of uptake of PMTCT service. Health workers should intensify quality counselling and health talks by taking time to explain extensively in English and their mother tongues