Primordial Methods of Antenatal and Delivery Services on the Prowl in North- Central Nigeria

Abstract

The Nigeria national reproductive health policy that was put in place to control maternal mortality is yet to achieve its desired effects as it is been hampered by the activities of traditional birth attendants in most communities. This study assessed the correlates of patronage of traditional birth attendants among women of reproductive age group in three rural communities of Apa local Government area of Benue State, Nigeria. A community-based cross sectional study design was employed to study 456 women in the settlements via a multistage sampling technique. Structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the independent variables that had significant chi-square at p<0.05. The findings revealed that patronage of traditional birth attendants amongst the respondents was 172(37.7%). The prevalent reasons for the patronage by respondents were the affordable cost of treatment 135(78.5%), cultural acceptability 80(46.5%), negative attitude of health workers 58(33.8%), proximity 51(29.7%), and compassionate care of the traditional birth attendants 15(8.7%), Husband’s decisions 8(4.7%) and TBAs not embarking on industrial strike 3(1.7%). About 164(95.3%) of those that patronize traditional birth attendants were satisfied with the services rendered. However, 33(19.2%) admitted to have experienced complications during delivery. Education and the marital status of respondents had the highest impact (Beta= 3.114 and 2.486 respectively) on traditional birth attendants patronage. A more aggressive approach in advocacy and awareness campaign is therefore needed to promote the utilization of health facilities that are within the provision of the reproductive policy of the country.