Birth preparedness, utilization of skilled birth attendants and delivery outcomes among pregnant women in Ogun State, Nigeria

INTRODUCTION: Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) is an approach initiated to facilitate utilization of skill birth attendants (SBAs) for improved pregnancy outcomes. Despite its usefulness, many women still did not use skilled birth attendants. The purpose of this study is to assess the level of birth preparedness and complication readiness and its association with skilled birth attendants’ utilization. METHODS: A descriptive sequential mixed methods design was used. In all, 350 women in their third trimester were purposively selected from healthcare facilities. Of these, 340 completed the study yielding a 97% response rate. Structured interviewer-administered questionnaire, a checklist and an in-depth interview guide were used to collect data. Data analysis was done in Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20 using descriptive and inferential statistics at 0.05 level of significance while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. RESULTS: There was a significant association between level of birth preparedness and complication readiness and use of skilled birth attendants [χ(2)(2, 340)=19.96; p=0.0001]. Some negative delivery outcomes (complications) were significantly associated with nonutilization of skill birth attendants. Cost, family members’ preference, distance, industrial action and irritation from the vaginal examination were factors that prevented women from using a skilled birth attendant. CONCLUSIONS: The study concluded that BPCR is significantly associated with the use of SBAs and better outcomes were observed in women that used SBAs in Nigeria.