Bridging The Gap: Enhancing Maternal Health Services In Ife-East, Osun State Through Community-Centric Initiatives And Challenges Mitigation

Abstract

This study investigated the state of maternal health services in Ife-East Local Government Area of Osun State, focusing on the availability of health care services and the barriers hindering access to maternal health care. Utilizing a descriptive research methodology, data were collected from 300 respondents, including health care workers and women who accessed maternal health services. The analysis highlighted a significant awareness of family planning and maternal health services. However, it also revealed inadequacies in prenatal and postnatal care facilities and a substantial provision of affordable family planning methods. Despite these services, the study identified several challenges to accessing maternal healthcare, including inadequate public services, infrastructure deficits, prevailing cultural norms, illiteracy, and security concerns. These barriers underscored the complex socio-economic and cultural factors obstructing effective maternal health care delivery. The findings suggested a need for a comprehensive approach involving government action, community engagement, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure and services. Moreover, the importance of enhancing public health campaigns and education to modify cultural norms and improve health literacy was emphasized. This research offers insights into maternal health in Ife-East LGA, proposing strategies for improving access and quality of maternal healthcare services.