Use of early postnatal care among postpartum women in Eastern Uganda

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the level and predictors of early postnatal care (EPNC) utilization in Soroti District, Eastern Uganda. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at nine health facilities in February 2014. Women aged 15–49years who had delivered in the previous year (but >1week ago) were enrolled at postnatal care clinics. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate analysis was used to identify factors associated with EPNC use (postnatal care visit 2–7days after delivery). ResultsAmong 357 respondents, 55 (15.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 11.6%–19.2%) used EPNC services. EPNC attendance was significantly associated with formal employment (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.88; 95% CI 1.08–13.93; P=0.038) and education about postnatal care schedules (aOR 9.73; 95% CI 1.58–60.06; P=0.014). Women at public health facilities were significantly less likely to have attended EPNC than were those at private facilities (aOR 0.03; 95% CI 0.01–0.10; P<0.001). An increase in length of hospitalization by 1day was associated with reduced EPNC utilization (aOR 0.63; 95% CI 0.43–0.91; P=0.015). ConclusionEPNC was poorly utilized and prioritized. Its use was hindered by protracted hospitalization, care provision at public facilities, maternal unemployment or self-employment, and lack of information.