Theses and Dissertations

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Browsing Theses and Dissertations by Subject "Postnatal care services"

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    Determinants of utilization of postnatal care services among postpartum women in Juba County, South Sudan
    (Muni University, 2025-11-18) Amanzuru , Jude Tadeo Koma
    Background The postpartum period is a critical phase for both postpartum women and newborns, accounting for a significant proportion of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The WHO recommends a minimum of four PNC visits within 42 days after childbirth to promote healthy practices and address complications. However, PNC utilization remains low globally, particularly in Africa and South Sudan. In Juba, no prior quantitative studies had assessed PNC uptake. This study aimed to identify key determinants influencing PNC service utilization among postpartum women in Juba County, South Sudan. Methodology A community-based analytical cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was conducted from 20th May to 30th July 2025. A total of 511 postpartum women who had delivered within 6 weeks to 24 months prior were selected using multistage sampling. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using binary logistic regression, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. Results Of the respondents, 256 (50.1%) were aged 25–34 years, 273 (53.4%) had attained primary education, and 464 (90.8%) were married. Most 483 (94.5%) identified as Christians, and 270 (52.8%) were housewives. Only 121 (23.7%) had attended two or more PNC visits. High parity (five or more children) was associated with lower odds of PNC utilization (aOR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.28–0.97, p = 0.043). Satisfaction with previous PNC visits increased the likelihood of utilization (aOR = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.16–6.80, p = 0.027), as did high knowledge of newborn danger signs (aOR = 5.02, 95% CI: 1.40–21.79, p = 0.019).