Socio-demographic Factors Associated with Choice of Place of Delivery Among Women Attending Antenatal Care at Tassia Kwa Ndege Hospital Embakasi East, Nairobi Kenya

Abstract

Background: Maternal health is a global public health concern that is crucial in the development of any nation. Kenya has made considerable efforts to increase access to quality maternal health care. Nairobi County constructed new hospitals within densely populated areas to bridge the gap to healthcare access and reduce the strain on already existing health facilities that are overcrowded. However, the rate of deliveries within these facilities remains low. This study aimed to explore factors influencing choice of place of delivery, specifically focusing on socio-demographic factors.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed utilising quantitative data collection methods. Using Fisher’s formula and accounting for a 10% non-response rate, a sample size of 314 women was determined. Structured questionnaires were administered to 290 participants, yielding a response rate of 92%. In-depth interviews were conducted by women attending antenatal care services at Tassia kwa Ndege Hospital. Data were analysed using SPSS, with descriptive statistics and chi-tests employed to establish associations between socio-demographic factors and the choice of place of delivery.
Results: The study revealed that a majority of women preferred other health facilities as their place of delivery compared to Tassia kwa Ndege. The study found that there was an association between socio-demographic factors and the choice of place of delivery. Age (P<.001), education (P<.003.), parity (P<.001), marital status (P<.190), religion (P<.048), head of family (P<.001) and decision maker (P<.001).
Conclusion: The majority of women participating in the study chose to deliver at hospital facilities other than Tassia kwa Ndege Hospital. The choice of place of delivery was strongly influenced by factors such as age, educational level, parity, and religion. The study offers valuable insights into the implementation of maternal health programmes and in developing context-specific strategies to promote maternal and child health.