Advantages and Disadvantages of Institutional Delivery and Home Delivery: A Qualitative Study in Northern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Nigeria faces high maternal and infant mortality; and Nigeria is one of the two countries, with India, that account for one-third of global child mortality. Many deaths could be prevented by institutional delivery, yet many women especially in developing countries still deliver a baby at home. Nigeria is not an exception; it faces low rate of institutional delivery, only 35.8%. Objective: To identify why many women do not deliver at a clinic, we compare the advantages and disadvantages of each place – home and clinic – for childbirth. Method: We conducted a qualitative study among 86 women in northern Nigeria. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Result: Among women who delivered a baby at home, the main barriers to institutional delivery include misconception about the importance, unpleasant clinic environment, and perceived harsh attitudes of health staff. One advantage of home delivery is the emotional support from family. Most women who delivered at clinic are satisfied with their experiences with no complaint about harsh staff attitude. The main disadvantages of clinic delivery is the condition of the clinic. Conclusion: The low quality of care at the health clinics is a concern and should be improved. Providing women with emotional support and pleasant environment at clinic are two feasible and potentially effective options.