Individual factors influencing the completion of antenatal care visits among pregnant mothers attending the ANC Clinic at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/edzjt187Keywords:
Individual factors, antenatal care visits, pregnant mothers, ANC Clinic, ANC completionAbstract
Background:
The study aimed to assess the individual factors influencing the completion of antenatal care visits among pregnant mothers attending the ANC Clinic at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital among pregnant mothers attending the antenatal clinic. A sample of 77 participants, derived from the Kish and Leslie formula, was selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, with assistance for illiterate respondents. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and presented in tables and charts. Quality control included pretesting and piloting tools. Ethical approval, informed consent, confidentiality, and voluntary participation were ensured throughout the study. Standard procedures were followed for data collection.
Results:
Most respondents (96%, n=74) had attended school, mainly up to secondary level (47.3%, n=35), while 25.7% (n=19) reached tertiary education. The majority (74%, n=57) were currently employed, with farming being the most common occupation (40.5%, n=23), while fewer worked as professionals such as nurses and teachers (25.7%, n=15). Most participants (68%, n=52) initiated antenatal care within the first trimester, whereas 32% (n=25) started later. Decision-making on seeking health care was limited, as 60% (n=46) reported not making their own decisions, compared to 40% (n=31) who did. Regarding alcohol use, 55% (n=42) had never consumed alcohol, while 45% (n=35) reported prior consumption.
Conclusion:
Education, employment, decision-making ability, and alcohol use influenced ANC completion.
Recommendation:
The government of Uganda should ensure antenatal care services are provided free of charge to improve access and utilization.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Norah Nannyonga, Mr Moses Ojale, Hasifa Nansereko, Francisco Ssemuwemba, Jane Frank Nalubega, Immaculate Prosperia Naggulu (Author)
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