Maternal health seeking behaviour and social structures in Bosomtwe

The study investigated access opportunities created by organisation of maternal health care and social relations and how this in turn influences health seeking behaviour. Pregnancy related maternal health care was studied based on cases of 16 women and health care providers. This was a study from a qualitative background of interviews, focus group discussions and observatioins. The result showed that characteristics embedded in social structure and organisation of maternal health care influence the attitude of women. The women use maternal health services especially antenatal care due to the introduction of the virtually free maternal health care but rather give birth at home. Home births which are normally without professional supervision are more widespread among women who live in Abono than in Kuntenase health zones of the district.

Autorentext

The author is a Health economist and research analyst. He studied at Norwegian University of Science and Technology. This study is relevant for maternal health policy and practice in situated areas. My inspiration was from women I met in this district while I worked there. This work became my research interest and results.