Factors influencing the choice of place of delivery among mothers of children less than two years in Oghara Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

   BACKGROUND: Nigeria has a high maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and a high neonatal morbidity and mortality rate. These mortalities can be ameliorated if women deliver in safe healthcare facilities manned by qualified healthcare personnel.  This study assessed the factors that affect the choice of place of delivery among mothers in Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria.  METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Oghara, Ethiope-West Local Government Area of Delta State. A total of 190 mothers, who delivered at term in the last two years were interviewed using structured questionnaires. Data analysis was done using SPSS v.24.  RESULTS: Most of the respondents (81%) were 25 years and above; 58.4% had a tertiary level of education. Seventy-three of them attended antenatal clinics, and Sixty-three percent of them had previously delivered in a health facility. Factors that influenced the choice of delivery were the mother’s level of education (p < 0.001), the partner’s level of education (p = 0.020), monthly household income (p = 0.016), and previous place of delivery (p < 0.001).  CONCLUSION: Two-fifths of the women were delivered at home/traditional birth attendant home, while three-fifths were delivered at a health facility. The choice of place of delivery was influenced by the level of education of the women, the educational level of their partners, monthly household income, and previous delivery sites. It is recommended that the education of women, and further strengthening of the Delta State free maternal health care program to encourage delivery at the health facility, and the reduction of maternal mortality is imperative.