Factors Affecting Utilization of Postnatal Services in a Selected District of Somalia

Abstract

Postnatal services refer to measures undertaken after birth to ensure good health of the mother and child. The objective of this study was to assess factors affecting utilization of postnatal services among mothers attending Banadir Hospital in Hodan district, Somalia. The study employed Quantitative methods of inquiry using a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. The study involved 150 mothers who responded to a questionnaire that was used to find out the factors affecting utilization of postnatal services. Questions were asked on demographic information of mothers; knowledge of mothers' about postnatal services, mothers' socio-economic status and factors affecting utilization of the postnatal services. The data were coded and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Key findings of the study were that most women lacked awareness about postnatal services and those who knew about these services only few knew about immunization and family planning services. The majority of the mothers did not know about other services, such as physiotherapy, counseling and physical examination. Lack of money for transport or service costs, un-friendly attitude of health workers, long waiting time for service provider and lack of awareness were the causes of non-availing the services from public institutes.