Multilevel analysis of factors predicting pregnancy loss experiences among pregnant women in Ghana: a further analysis of nationally representative data

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy loss experiences due to stillbirths, miscarriages, and abortion among women have a negative effect on maternal health, leading to maternal mortality and strain on the health system. This study, therefore, seeks to examine the individual, proximate, and household factors associated with pregnancy loss experiences among ever pregnant women in Ghana. Methods: Data for this study were obtained from the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) conducted between early September and mid-December 2014. The weighted sample comprised 2321 ever pregnant women aged 15–49 years. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 25 using both descriptive and multilevel logistic regression modelling. Results: The study found that 48% of ever pregnant women have experienced pregnancy loss in Ghana. The multilevel regression analysis shows that ever pregnant women aged 25–34 years and 35–49 years had a higher likelihood of losing pregnancy. Pregnant women with secondary/higher education were less likely to lose their pregnancy. pregnant women who reside in urban areas has lower odds of pregnancy loss. Ever pregnant women who were currently married and those who were formerly married were more likely to experience pregnancy loss than never married women. Ever pregnant women who had access to an improved source of drinking water had a higher probability of losing their pregnancy. Interestingly, ever pregnant women who attended antenatal care services 1–3 times and 4 or more times were more likely to experience pregnancy loss. Conclusion: Individual, household, and proximate factors, such as pregnant women’s age, educational level, place of residence, religion, marital status, occupational type, household source of drinking water, and a number of antenatal visits, are strong significant predictors of pregnancy loss experiences among pregnant women in Ghana. These factors should be considered in strengthening existing programs and developing new interventions to decrease pregnancy loss and ensure safe motherhood.