Factors associated with maternal and child health services utilization among mothers of children under 5 years in Southern Shan State, Myanmar
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62992/za9k1n69Keywords:
Antenatal care, Family planning, Maternal and child health service utilization, Postnatal care, Skilled birth at-tendant, Southern Shan StateAbstract
Background: Enhancing maternal and child health and reducing mortality rates are critical global concerns. In 2023, maternal mortality remained a significant global health issue, with over 700 deaths from preventable pregnancy-related causes affecting low- and lower-middle-income countries. Myanmar is facing obstacles in providing maternal and child health services.
Objectives: This study examined the prevalence and factors associated with maternal and child health (MCH) service utilization among mothers with children under five years of age in Southern Shan State, Myanmar.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among mothers with children under five years of age, selected through multistage random sampling from four townships in Southern Shan State, Myanmar. Multiple logistic regression was applied. Factors with p <0.05 were considered to have statistically significant association with the outcome.
Results: Among the 455 participants, the prevalence of MCH services utilization was 31.6% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 27.52 – 36.07). Urban residents (AOR = 10.32, 95% CI = 5.65–18.83), mothers aged 26–30 years (AOR = 6.12, 95% CI = 3.11–12.04), and mothers aged over 31 years (AOR = 3.29, 95% CI = 1.58–6.87) showed higher utilization. Higher family income (AOR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.03-4.22) and smaller family size (AOR = 4.26, 95% CI = 1.94–9.38) were also associated with greater use of services. Maternal and reproductive history factors linked to increased MCH service utilization included a history of abortion (AOR = 10.50, 95% CI = 4.04–27.30) and better maternal knowledge (AOR = 5.53, 95% CI = 2.37–12.86).
Conclusion: This study revealed approximately one-third of the mothers utilized MCH services. Factors associated with higher MCH services utilization included maternal health, access to healthcare, socioeconomic status, knowledge, and attitudes about MCH services.
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