Factors Influencing EMTCT Service Utilization by HIV-Positive Pregnant Women at Karoli Lwanga Hospital, Rukungiri District, Western Uganda

Abstract

This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and health-related factors affecting the utilization of Early Mother-to-Child Transmission (EMTCT) services among HIV/AIDS pregnant women at Karoli Lwangi Hospital in Rukungiri district. Data was collected from 97 pregnant mothers with HIV/AIDS through questionnaires. The findings revealed that most participants had a good understanding of HIV transmission routes, particularly from mother to child during pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding. The majority were aware that antiretroviral therapy (ARV) could prevent mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) but disagreed that using condoms could prevent it. The study also showed a high willingness to separate from spouses if they tested positive for HIV and strong support for HIV-infected mothers delivering with skilled health workers. However, a significant barrier to the utilization of EMTCT services was the unaffordability of healthcare costs. This suggests that despite positive attitudes and knowledge, financial constraints remain a critical hindrance to EMTCT service utilization. Keywords: EMTCT, Pregnant women, HIV/AIDS, Healthcare, Health worker.