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Cultural Diversity and Utilization of Healthcare Services: Assessing the Influence of Cultural Beliefs on Maternal Healthcare-Seeking Behaviour Among Women of Reproductive Age in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria

Islamiyyat O. Agoro, Adedapo A. Adejumo,, Uwalaka, C.H.

Abstract

Cultural beliefs and practices may influence women's decisions regarding maternal healthcare utilisation, particularly in settings where traditional, religious and biomedical perspectives coexist. This study assessed the influence of cultural beliefs on maternal healthcare-seeking behaviour among women of reproductive age in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria. A community-based analytical cross-sectional design was employed among 414 respondents selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, cultural beliefs and practices, reproductive history, maternal healthcare utilisation, partner support, geographical accessibility and perceived respectful care. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression, with statistical significance set at p < .05. Antenatal care attendance was reported by 88.6% of respondents, while 50.7% initiated antenatal care in the first trimester, 77.5% reported facility-based delivery and 65.2% received postnatal care. Overall, 59.4% demonstrated adequate maternal healthcare utilisation. Cultural-belief scores were significantly associated with utilisation (p < .001), with adequate utilisation declining from 86.2% among respondents with low scores to 43.3% among those with high scores. High cultural-belief scores were associated with lower odds of adequate utilisation (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.31; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.16–0.61). Adequate partner support (AOR = 2.54; 95% CI: 1.52–4.26) and perceived respectful care (AOR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.12–3.16) were positively associated with utilisation, while limited education and greater distance were associated with lower utilisation. The findings support culturally responsive health education, respectful maternity care, partner engagement and improved geographical access to promote appropriate maternal healthcare utilisation.

Keywords

Cultural beliefs; maternal healthcare utilisation; healthcare-seeking behaviour; Nigeria.

References

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