This study investigates the delays in accessing maternal healthcare services among pregnant women in Kuje, Abuja, with a focus on the factors contributing to these delays. Specifically, it examines the influence of transportation availability, healthcare costs, and healthcare provider shortages on timely access to maternal services. The study also explores the socio-demographic characteristics of the women and identifies strategies to address these delays. A cross-sectional research design was employed, and data were collected in 2025 from a sample of 260 pregnant women who had attended antenatal care or required emergency obstetric services within the preceding year. Participants were selected using stratified random sampling across various healthcare facilities in the Kuje Area Council. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests, including chi-square and regression analysis, to examine the relationships between delays and key factors. The findings indicate that transportation difficulties, high healthcare costs, and shortages of healthcare providers significantly contribute to delays in accessing maternal care. Women with limited transport options experienced longer travel times to healthcare facilities, while high service costs hindered timely antenatal visits. Regression analysis further confirmed that these factors are significant predictors of delays, collectively affecting maternal health outcomes. The study concludes that addressing transportation barriers, reducing healthcare costs, and ensuring adequate staffing in healthcare facilities are critical to improving timely access to maternal services in Kuje. Additionally, community-based interventions and awareness campaigns are recommended to overcome socio-cultural barriers and encourage prompt healthcare-seeking behavior among pregnant women. These measures are essential to enhancing maternal health outcomes and reducing the risks associated with delayed care.
- Quote paper
- Ikechukwu Nelson Nicholas Onyeabor (Author), 2026, Assessing Factors Responsible for Delay in Health Services Among Pregnant Women in Kuje, Abuja, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1722025