Utilization of Maternal Health Care Services In an Urban Slum of Bangalore- A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy is golden period in woman’s life. They must not face any complications during this period. In spite of the developed health care system in India, it is disgraceful to see many mothers who succumb to pregnancy and child birth. Although there is decline in maternal mortality, still India contributes to lot of maternal deaths. Accessibility and utilization of services are two major issues to be addressed immediately.
 Objective: The study was to assess the utilization of maternal health care services in urban slum.
 Methods: This was a Cross-sectional study. Study was conducted among the postnatal women of an urban slum area in Bangalore. Sample size was 125. Data was collected using a pre-tested questionnaire by interview method. Data regarding socio-demographic profile, antenatal visits, health services utilized, type of health center and also regarding postnatal visits were obtained.
 Results: Registration of pregnancy 124 (99.2%), 4 antenatal visits-123 (98.6%), TT doses-121 (96.4%), Institutional delivery was found to be 100%. IFA tablets consumption was only seen in 86 (68.6%). Minimum 3 postnatal visits in 6 months duration were completed by only 93 (74.5%) subjects. Family planning services was adopted by 57 (45.6%). 98 (78%) of the study participants followed Exclusive breastfeeding.
 Conclusion: The insights provide an opportunity to develop strategies to address the inadequacies and inequitable distribution of health care services.