Factors Influencing Uptake of Skilled Delivery in South Senchi in the Asuogyaman District of the Eastern Region of Ghana

Abstract

Introduction Skilled attendance during delivery is a key strategy for the reduction of maternal morbidity and mortality. However, more than 40% of births in rural areas in Ghana still occur outside of health facilities without skilled attendants, with these births supported by family members or traditional birth attendants (TBAs) Method A cross sectional survey was carried out from February to March 2016 to identify the factors that influence the uptake of skilled delivery in South Senchi and to recommend possible ways to improve women’s uptake of skilled delivery. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample size of 200 (two hundred) women of reproductive age 15-49 who delivered within the period January 2012- December 2015 and semi-structured questionnaires were used for the interview by trained field staff. Results About 75% of respondents had used skilled delivery, indicating a high knowledge of the importance of using skilled delivery. The significant factors that influenced the uptake of skilled delivery were: maternal age, antenatal care attendance, knowledge of importance of skilled delivery and possession of valid health insurance policy. Conclusion The study recommended information, education and communication programs to increase awareness of importance of skilled delivery in rural areas. Also collaborative efforts from all sectors could be made to ensure all women have access to skilled attendance during pregnancy and delivery.