Utilization of Antenatal Care Services Within the Context of COVID-19, Security Challenges, and an Unstable Healthcare System at Primary Health Care Centers

Abstract

Background

Utilizing antenatal care (ANC) is vital for maternal and neonatal well-being, especially in low-resource settings with healthcare challenges. Identifying factors impacting antenatal care this context, t of current situation in Sudan is crucial for developing strategies to improve maternal care. This study explores ANC utilization amidst COVID-19, security issues, and healthcare instability in primary health care centers in a resource-constrained environment, aiming to enhance maternal care access and quality.

Methods

This is a mixed-methods study. Quantitative data were collected through a retrospective analysis of ANC attendance records before and during the pandemic. Demographic variables were analyzed for their association with ANC utilization. In-depth interviews were conducted to collect qualitative data from pregnant women and healthcare providers. These interviews focused on capturing the experiences, perceptions, and obstacles associated with antenatal care services during the pandemic and within the healthcare system challenges.

Results

Preliminary quantitative analysis revealed a significant decline in ANC utilization during the pandemic. Fear of COVID-19 infection, disrupted transportation, and resource constraints have emerged as significant barriers to ANC attendance. The qualitative findings highlighted the impact of security challenges on healthcare access and the adaptation strategies employed, including mobile ANC clinics and telehealth consultations.

Conclusion

This study illuminates the intricate landscape of ANC utilization in the face of a pandemic, security instability, and healthcare system vulnerability. Policymakers and stakeholders should collaborate to strengthen healthcare systems and ensure the continued provision of essential maternal health services during challenging times.

Keywords:

• antenatal care
• maternal health
• COVID-19
• healthcare system
• primary health care centers
• security challenges
• low-resource country
• healthcare access

Ethical Consideration

This study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Ethical clearance was acquired from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of the University of Gezira, Institute of Safe Motherhood and Childhood, Sudan. Informed consent was obtained after providing a comprehensive explanation before the commencement of data collection.

Acknowledgments

The author is thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

The author would also like to express his gratitude to his colleagues Tuga Hassan and Narmin Ezden for their invaluable efforts in gathering data and spearheading the data collection initiative with the support of the health administration in Sharge Elneil locality, Khartoum State, Sudan.

Disclosure

The author reports no conflicts of interest in this work.