Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026
A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Pregnant women's perspectives on antenatal care utilization in Cameroon: a cross- sectional mixed-methods study
Robert Tchounzou1, Harisse Ntongamuah Zisuh1, André Wambo Simo1
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon.
Antenatal care (ANC) is essential for improving maternal and fetal health outcomes, yet utilization remains suboptimal in Cameroon. This study explored pregnant women's perspectives on determinants of ANC utilization and perceived quality of care in the Buea and Limbe Health Districts, conceptualizing satisfaction both as an outcome of service quality and a contextual influence on continued utilization. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, comprising a cross-sectional survey of 410 pregnant women attending public, private, and faith-based health facilities, followed by 20 in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed and integrated through side-by- side comparison. Only 45.6% of participants achieved the World Health Organization-recommended minimum of eight ANC contacts. Adequate utilization was significantly associated with receiving care in public facilities, formal employment, lower parity, and timing of ANC initiation. The association between second-trimester initiation and adequate utilization reflects cumulative attendance patterns rather than optimal timing and should therefore be interpreted cautiously. Key barriers to ANC use included financial constraints, long waiting times, negative provider attitudes, and delayed disclosure of pregnancy. Although overall satisfaction with ANC services was relatively high, dissatisfaction persisted regarding waiting times, indirect costs, and the quality of health education. Qualitative findings highlighted the importance of respectful, nonjudgmental provider behavior, partner support, privacy during consultations, and clear communication in shaping women's engagement with ANC services. Improving ANC utilization and quality in Cameroon requires woman-centered, multisectoral strategies that address financial barriers, promote respectful maternity care, and strengthen community-based health education to encourage early initiation and sustained engagement.
Antenatal care (ANC) is essential for improving maternal and fetal health outcomes, yet utilization remains suboptimal in Cameroon. This study explored pregnant women's perspectives on determinants of ANC utilization and perceived quality of care in the Buea and Limbe Health Districts, conceptualizing satisfaction both as an outcome of service quality and a contextual influence on continued utilization. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, comprising a cross-sectional survey of 410 pregnant women attending public, private, and faith-based health facilities, followed by 20 in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed and integrated through side-by- side comparison. Only 45.6% of participants achieved the World Health Organization-recommended minimum of eight ANC contacts. Adequate utilization was significantly associated with receiving care in public facilities, formal employment, lower parity, and timing of ANC initiation. The association between second-trimester initiation and adequate utilization reflects cumulative attendance patterns rather than optimal timing and should therefore be interpreted cautiously. Key barriers to ANC use included financial constraints, long waiting times, negative provider attitudes, and delayed disclosure of pregnancy. Although overall satisfaction with ANC services was relatively high, dissatisfaction persisted regarding waiting times, indirect costs, and the quality of health education. Qualitative findings highlighted the importance of respectful, nonjudgmental provider behavior, partner support, privacy during consultations, and clear communication in shaping women's engagement with ANC services. Improving ANC utilization and quality in Cameroon requires woman-centered, multisectoral strategies that address financial barriers, promote respectful maternity care, and strengthen community-based health education to encourage early initiation and sustained engagement.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Development of the Oral Microbiota
01:30Primary Healthcare Services
In 1978, international leaders convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, for what would be a pivotal event in global health. The Alma-Ata Declaration was the first to call...
01:26Methods Of Healthcare Delivery System
Managed Care System:
The managed care system is designed to control the cost while maintaining the quality of care. The patient's care from admission to discharge is planned by the primary care provider or the case manager, also known as the gatekeeper. In a managed care system, the number of care providers is...
01:30Preventive Healthcare Services
01:26Levels of Health Promotion and Illness Prevention
In primary prevention, actions taken before disease onset prevent the disease from...