FACTORS INFLUECING THE UTILIZATION OF MATERNAL HEALTH CARE SRTVICES AMONG THE WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN MAGUMERI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA ,BORNO STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

Maternal health services are critical for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. In Magumeri Local Government Area, Borno State, Nigeria, their utilization remains low among women of reproductive age. This study assessed factors influencing maternal healthcare service use, including health education, cultural beliefs, poverty, socio-cultural norms, quality of health facilities, and availability of skilled personnel. A cross-sectional design was adopted involving 350 women, of whom 300 provided valid responses. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics to identify determinants of maternal health service utilization. Low utilization was associated with poor health education, entrenched cultural and religious beliefs, financial capability, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and shortages of trained personnel. These findings align with global evidence on the multifactorial influences shaping maternal health service use. The utilization of maternal health services in Magumeri LGA is influenced by a complex interplay of individual, socioeconomic, cultural, and structural factors. Effective interventions must address these multidimensional barriers through context-specific strategies including: improving female education, economic empowerment programs, community engagement to address cultural barriers, and strengthening health system infrastructure with particular attention to security challenges. Policy initiatives should prioritize decentralized maternal health services and community-based health insurance schemes to reduce financial barriers in this resource-limited setting. Addressing these barriers can enhance service uptake during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, contributing to reduced maternal morbidity and mortality in Borno State.