Utilization, satisfaction, and perceived maternal health benefits of group antenatal care in Karu LGA, North Central, Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION

Group Antenatal Care (G-ANC) has emerged as an innovative model for improving maternal health service delivery in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study assessed the utilization, satisfaction, and perceived effectiveness of G-ANC among pregnant women attending selected primary healthcare centers in Karu Metropolis, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

METHODOLOGY: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 450 pregnant women systematically sampled from primary healthcare facilities. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests for associations (p < 0.05). Variables explored included socio-demographics, obstetric history, complications, G-ANC experiences, and perceived barriers to care.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Most respondents (72.9%) were aged 20-25, with a majority being married (81.1%) and housewives (80%). A high proportion (85.8%) reported experiencing complications during pregnancy, notably hemorrhage (28.9%) and infections (52%). G-ANC was widely utilized, with 88.4% attending 7-9 sessions. Satisfaction with G-ANC services was high (88.4%), and 75.6% strongly agreed that G-ANC improved their understanding of antenatal care. Institutional delivery uptake was 95.6%, and 84.9% perceived that G-ANC contributed to reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. However, financial (36%) and geographic barriers (49.3%) persisted, and 28.4% reported delays in seeking care. G-ANC was well-accepted, enhanced maternal health literacy, and improved institutional delivery rates. However, barriers such as transportation and financial constraints limited optimal care-seeking. The findings align with similar Nigerian studies showing high satisfaction with G-ANC but call for system-level interventions. Integration of financial support schemes, community engagement, male involvement, and improved infrastructure are necessary for broader impact.

CONCLUSION

G-ANC presents a promising strategy to enhance maternal health outcomes in LMICs. Strategic scale-up, system-wide support, and longitudinal evaluations are essential to optimize its potential and address persistent health system barriers.