Barriers to utilization of anti-retroviral therapy among HIV positive pregnant women in Birnin Kebbi, North West Nigeria.

Abstract

Mother-to-child transmission of HIV remains a significant public health concern, particularly in resource-limited societies. Antiretroviral therapy, which effectively reduces transmission risks and enhances maternal health, is central to global efforts to control HIV among pregnant women. However, uptake of this therapy continues to face various challenges. This study investigates barriers to the utilization of antiretroviral therapy among HIV-positive pregnant women in Birnin Kebbi, North West Nigeria. A cross-sectional study design was adopted, employing key informant and in-depth interviews involving 320 HIV-positive pregnant women accessing antenatal care. Findings show that key barriers include socio-demographic factors such as younger age, low educational attainment and poor socio-economic status. HIV-related stigma significantly discouraged disclosure and delayed healthcare-seeking behaviors. Misconceptions regarding the safety of antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy further deterred women from initiating and adhering to treatment. Inadequate healthcare infrastructure and geographical accessibility also hindered access to therapy services. This study concludes that interventions focusing on community education to reduce stigma, correcting misconceptions about therapy safety, improving healthcare infrastructure, and integrating antiretroviral therapy into antenatal care could substantially increase utilization, reduce transmission, and improve maternal and child health outcomes in Nigeria.