Opportunities to improve postpartum care for mothers and infants: design of context-specific packages of postpartum interventions in rural districts in four sub-Saharan African countries

Early Postnatal Care Utilization and Associated Factors Among Women Who Give Birth in the Last Six Weeks in Hosanna Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2022

Background: The early postnatal period is defined as the first 48 h to 7 days after delivery. The early postnatal visit is especially the most critical time for the survival of mothers and newborns, particularly through early detection and management of postpartum complications. Despite the benefits, most mothers and newborns do not receive early postnatal care services from healthcare providers during the critical first few days after delivery. Objectives: This study is aimed at assessing the prevalence of early postnatal care utilization and associated factors among mothers who gave birth within the last 6 weeks in Hosanna town, Southern Ethiopia, from April 20 to May 30, 2022. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Hadiya Zone, Hosanna town, Southern Ethiopia. A simple random sample technique was used to recruit 403 mothers who had given birth in the previous 6 weeks from a family folder. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a standardized questionnaire. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the association between outcomes and explanatory variables, and the strength of the association was interpreted using an odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval. In our study, p values of 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of early postnatal care utilization among mothers who gave birth within 1 week of the study area was 25.8% (95% CI: 21.7-30.0). No formal and primary educational level of husband (AOR = 0.05, 95% CI: [0.02, 0.16]), antenatal care follow-up (AOR = 2.13, 95% CI: [1.11, 4.1]), length of hospital stay before discharge (≥24 h) (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: [0.16, 0.55]), and information about early postnatal care utilization (AOR = 3.08, 95% CI: [1.72, 5.52]) were factors significantly associated with early postnatal care utilization. Conclusion: In comparison to World Health Organization standards, the study's overall prevalence of early postnatal care utilization was low. Early postnatal care use was significantly associated with antenatal care follow-up, the husband's educational level, knowledge of early postnatal care use, and length of stay at the health institution following birth. As a result, the strength of health facilities is to improve service provision, information education, and communication.

Adapting group care to the postpartum period using a human-centered design approach in Malawi

BACKGROUND

Responsive and resilient strategies to reduce high rates of maternal and infant mortality and clinician shortages are needed in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Malawi has some of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates globally. Group healthcare is a service delivery model that integrates these strategies. Although primarily implemented during the prenatal period, its potential for improving both maternal and infant health outcomes during the postpartum period has not been realized. The purpose of this study was to adapt and co-design the prototype for an evidence-based group care model for the postpartum period using a human-centered design approach with key stakeholders in Malawi.

METHODS

We completed steps of a framework guiding the use of human-centered design: 1) define the problem and assemble a team; 2) gather information through evidence and inspiration; 3) synthesize; and 4) intervention design: guiding principles and ideation. Qualitative methods were used to complete steps 2-4. In-depth interviews (n = 24), and incubator sessions (n = 6) that employed free listing, pile sorting and ranking were completed with key stakeholders. Data analysis consisted of content analysis of interviews and framework analysis for incubator sessions to produce the integrated group postpartum and well-child care model prototype. The fifth step is detailed in a separate paper.

RESULTS

All stakeholders reported a desire to participate in and offer group care in the postpartum period. Stakeholders worked collaboratively to co-create the prototype that included a curriculum of health promotion topics and interactive activities and the service delivery structure. Health promotion topic priorities were hygiene, breastfeeding, family planning, nutrition, and mental health. The recommended schedule included 6 sessions corresponding with the child vaccination schedule over the 12-month postpartum period.

CONCLUSIONS

Using a human-centered design approach to adapt an evidence-based group care model in an LMIC, specifically Malawi, is feasible and acceptable to key stakeholders and resulted in a prototype curriculum and practical strategies for clinic implementation.

Satisfaction and Perceived Effectiveness on Herbal Decoctions for Postpartum Care: a cross-sectional survey of mother's experience

Objectives

In East Asia, postpartum care has traditionally been considered important for maternal health; however, studies on this are still insufficient. Therefore, we examined the satisfaction and perceived effectiveness of herbal decoctions used in postpartum care in a city in the Republic of Korea (ROK).

Methods

We analyzed anonymized secondary data obtained from a retrospective cross-sectional survey of women who had taken herbal decoctions provided by the support service for women giving birth in a local city in ROK. The questionnaire items consisted of basic information regarding childbirth, the need for the herbal decoction support service, satisfaction, and the effectiveness of the service received.

Results

A total of 68 women were included in the study, and those aged 30-39 accounted for 73.13%. Of the 68 women, 79.37% visited within 3 weeks of childbirth. Women's satisfaction regarding herbal decoction support for postpartum care was 76.47%, and most women (98.53%) responded that they needed it more than twice. More than 50% of women showed improvement in puerperal wind disorders, weight gain, and delayed eliminated lochia.

Conclusion

A large proportion of women who took herbal decoctions reported satisfaction and perceived effectiveness when used to treat puerperal wind disorders. Nevertheless, future well-designed clinical studies are needed to provide information on whether herbal decoctions effectively prevent and treat puerperal wind disorders.

Evaluation of implementation outcomes of an integrated group postpartum and well-child care model at clinics in Malawi

Background Persistently elevated rates of maternal and infant mortality and morbidities in Malawi indicate the need for increased quality of maternal and well-child care services. The first-year postpartum sets the stage for long-term health for the childbearing parent and infant. Integrated group postpartum and well-child care may improve maternal and infant health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine implementation outcomes for this model of care. Methods We used mixed methods to examine implementation outcomes of integrated group postpartum and well-child care. We piloted sessions at three clinics in Blantyre District, Malawi. During each session we evaluated fidelity using a structured observation checklist. At the end of each session, we administered three surveys to health care workers and women participants, the Acceptability of Intervention Measure, the Intervention Appropriateness Measure, and the Feasibility of Intervention Measure. Focus groups were conducted to gain greater understanding of people’s experience with and evaluation of the model. Results Forty-one women with their infants participated in group sessions. Nineteen health care workers across the three clinics co-facilitated group sessions, 9 midwives and 10 health surveillance assistants. Each of the 6 sessions was tested once at each clinic for a total of 18 pilot sessions. Both women and health care workers reported group postpartum and well-child care was highly acceptable, appropriate, and feasible across clinics. Fidelity to the group care model was high. During each session as part of structured observation the research team noted common health issues, the most common one among women was high blood pressure and among infants was flu-like symptoms. The most common services received within the group space was family planning and infant vaccinations. Women reported gaining knowledge from health promotion group discussions and activities. There were some challenges implementing group sessions. Conclusion We found that clinics in Blantyre District, Malawi were able to implement group postpartum and well-child care with fidelity and that it was highly acceptable, appropriate, and feasible to women and health care workers. Due to these promising results, we recommend future research examine the effectiveness of the model on maternal and child health outcomes.

Community health workers' involvement in mother-child care during the 1st year after birth, in Kaya health district, Burkina Faso: A contribution analysis

Introduction

Maternal and infant morbidity and mortality remain high in sub-Saharan Africa. However, actions to strengthen postpartum care are still weak and mainly limited to health facilities (HFs). In Kaya health district, Burkina Faso, community health workers (CHWs) were involved in mother and child care during the 1st year postpartum through home visits, outreach sessions and accompanying mothers to health facilities. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of CHWs to postpartum women's attendance at the health facilities.

Methods

We conducted an effect assessment using Mayne and Lemire's contribution analysis framework. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through project documents review and individual semi-structured interviews with key-informants.

Results

All the participants interviewed acknowledged that the number of women, who came to postpartum care, had increased since the implementation of the project activities. Postpartum consultation rates within the 1st week postpartum increased from 29% in 2011 to 80% in 2015 and from 19 to 50% within 6 weeks. Others interventions such as Performance based financing, Save The Children nutritional project and the health services component of Missed Opportunities in Mother and Infant Health (MOMI) were the alternative explanations.

Conclusions

CHWs involvement in women care contributed to improve their adherence to postpartum consultations in Kaya health district.

Safe recovery after cesarean in rural Africa: Technical consensus guidelines for post-discharge care

Despite increasing cesarean rates in Africa, there remain extensive gaps in the standard provision of care after cesarean birth. We present recommendations for discharge instructions to be provided to women following cesarean delivery in Rwanda, particularly rural Rwanda, and with consideration of adaptable guidelines for sub-Saharan Africa, to support recovery during the postpartum period. These guidelines were developed by a Technical Advisory Group comprised of clinical, program, policy, and research experts with extensive knowledge of cesarean care in Africa. The final instructions delineate between normal and abnormal recovery symptoms and advise when to seek care. The instructions align with global postpartum care guidelines, with additional emphasis on care practices more common in the region and address barriers that women delivering via cesarean may encounter in Africa. The recommended timeline of postpartum visits and visit activities reflect the World Health Organization protocols and provide additional activities to support women who give birth via cesarean. These guidelines aim to standardize communication with women at the time of discharge after cesarean birth in Africa, with the goal of improved confidence and clinical outcomes among these individuals.

Postnatal Care Utilization and Associated Factors among Mothers who gave Birth in the Aysaeta District, Northeast Ethiopia: A Community Based Cross-sectional Study

Background

Postnatal care is given to mothers and newborn babies within 42 days of delivery. It is a period of high maternal and newborn mortality and is also the most neglected in terms of maternal health services in many parts of the world. This study aimed to assess postnatal care and associated factors among mothers who gave birth in the year preceding the survey of the Ayssaeta district.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 406 mothers who gave birth in the year preceding the survey from August 02-30, 2020. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to identify factors associated with postnatal care utilization.

Results

Slightly greater than four out of ten mothers have visited postnatal care units at least once. Living in urban areas, giving birth in a health facility, having complications during labor and after, and getting advice during antenatal care visits were associated with higher odds of postnatal care utilization.

Conclusion

Less than half of the mothers received postnatal care following the delivery of their last child. Living in an urban, place of delivery, experiencing labor and postpartum complications, and receiving postnatal care advice during antenatal care have affected the utilization of postnatal care. Promoting skilled delivery and antenatal care with a focus on rural areas can help mothers learn about postnatal care and increase the number of mothers who use it.

Perinatal care in Western Uganda: Prevalence and factors associated with appropriate care among women attending three district hospitals

Background

Perinatal mortality remains high globally and remains an important indicator of the quality of a health care system. To reduce this mortality, it is important to provide the recommended care during the perinatal period. We assessed the prevalence and factors associated with appropriate perinatal care (antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum) in Bunyoro region, Uganda. Results from this study provide valuable information on the perinatal care services and highlight areas of improvement for better perinatal outcomes.

Methods

A cross sectional survey was conducted among postpartum mothers attending care at three district hospitals in Bunyoro. Following consent, a questionnaire was administered to capture the participants’ demographics and data on care received was extracted from their antenatal, labour, delivery, and postpartum records using a pre-tested structured tool. The care received by women was assessed against the standard protocol established by World Health Organization (WHO). Poisson regression with robust standard errors was used to assess factors associated with appropriate postpartum care.

Results

A total of 872 mothers receiving care at the participating hospitals between March and June 2020 were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the mothers was 25 years (SD = 5.95). None of the mothers received appropriate antenatal or intrapartum care, and only 3.8% of the participants received appropriate postpartum care. Factors significantly associated with appropriate postpartum care included mothers being >35 years of age (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 11.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.8–51.4) and parity, with low parity (2–3) and multiparous (>3) mothers less likely to receive appropriate care than prime gravidas (aPR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–0.9 and aPR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–0.8 respectively).

Conclusions

Antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care received by mothers in this region remains below the standard recommended by WHO, and innovative strategies across the continuum of perinatal care need to be devised to prevent mortality among the mothers. The quality of care also needs to be balanced for all mothers irrespective of the age and parity.

Term Newborn Care Recommendations Provided in a Kenyan Postnatal Ward: A Rapid, Focused Ethnographic Assessment

BACKGROUND

Neonatal mortality (death within 0-28 d of life) in Kenya is high despite strong evidence that newborn care recommendations save lives. In public healthcare facilities, nurses counsel caregivers on term newborn care, but knowledge about the content and quality of nurses' recommendations is limited.

PURPOSE

To describe the term newborn care recommendations provided at a tertiary-level, public referral hospital in Western Kenya, how they were provided, and related content taught at a university nursing school.

METHODS

A rapid, focused ethnographic assessment, guided by the culture care theory, using stratified purposive sampling yielded 240 hours of participant observation, 24 interviews, 34 relevant documents, and 268 pages of field notes. Data were organized using NVivo software and key findings identified using applied thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Themes reflect recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding, warmth, cord care, follow-up examinations, and immunizations, which were provided orally in Kiswahili and some on a written English discharge summary. Select danger sign recommendations were also provided orally, if needed. Some recommendations conflicted with other providers' guidance. More recommendations for maternal care were provided than for newborn care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

There is need for improved consistency in content and provision of recommendations before discharge. Findings should be used to inform teaching, clinical, and administrative processes to address practice competency and improve nursing care quality.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Larger studies are needed to determine whether evidence-based recommendations are provided consistently across facilities and other populations, such as community-born and premature newborns, who also experience high rates of neonatal mortality in Kenya.

Missed opportunities for family planning counselling among postpartum women in eleven counties in Kenya

Background

Mothers may access medical facilities for their babies and miss opportunities to access family planning (FP) services. This study was undertaken to describe missed opportunities for FP among women within the extended (0–11 months) postpartum period from counties participating in Performance Monitoring and Accountability 2020 (PMA2020) surveys.

Design and setting

This study analysed cross-sectional household survey data from 11 counties in Kenya between 2014 and 2018. PMA2020 uses questions extracted from the Demographic and Health survey (DHS) and DHS definitions were used. Multivariable logistic regression was used for inferential statistics with p-value of < 0.05 considered to be significant.

Participants

Women aged 15-49 years from the households visited.

Primary outcome measure

Missed opportunity for family planning/contraceptives (FP/C) counselling.

Results

Of the 34,832 women aged 15-49 years interviewed, 10.9% (3803) and 10.8% (3746) were in the period 0–11 months and 12–23 months postpartum respectively, of whom, 38.8 and 39.6% respectively had their previous pregnancy unintended. Overall, 50.4% of women 0-23 months postpartum had missed opportunities for FP/C counselling. Among women who had contact with health care at the facility, 39.2% of women 0-11 months and 44.7% of women 12-23 months had missed opportunities for FP/C counselling. Less than half of the women 0-11 months postpartum (46.5%) and 64.5% of women 12 – 23 months postpartum were using highly efficacious methods. About 27 and 18% of the women 0-11 months and 12 – 23 months postpartum respectively had unmet need for FP/C. Multivariable analysis showed that being low parity and being from the low wealth quintile significantly increased the odds of missed opportunities for FP/C counselling among women in the extended postpartum period, p < 0.05.

Conclusions

A large proportion of women have missed opportunities for FP/C counselling within 2 years postpartum. Programs should address these missed opportunities.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12623-0.

Maternal healthcare coverage for first pregnancies in adolescent girls: a systematic comparison with adult mothers in household surveys across 105 countries, 2000-2019

Background

Effective maternal service delivery for adolescent mothers is essential in achieving the targets for maternal mortality under the Sustainable Development Goals. Yet little is known about levels of maternal service coverage in adolescents compared with adult mothers.

Method

We used data from 283 Demographic and Health Surveys or Multiple Cluster Indicator Surveys for 105 countries between 2000 and 2019 to estimate the levels and trends of inequality in coverage of five maternal health services between adolescent girls (aged 15–19) and adult mothers (aged 20–34), including receiving four or more antenatal care visits, delivering with skilled birth attendants and receiving a postnatal check-up within 24 hours of delivery.

Results

We analysed data from 0.9 million adolescent girls and 2.4 million adult mothers. Using the most recent data, we found adolescent girls had poorer coverage across all indicators, with receipt of four or more antenatal care visits 6.5 (95% CI 6.3 to 6.7) percentage points lower than adult mothers, delivery with skilled birth attendants 3.6 (95% CI 3.4 to 3.8) lower and having a postnatal check-up within 24 hours of delivery 3.2 (95% CI 2.8 to 3.6) lower. The coverage was 54.2% (95% CI 53.9 to 54.5) among adolescents for four or more antenatal care visits, 69.7% (95% CI 69.4 to 70.0) for delivery with skilled birth attendants and only 30.0% (95% CI 29.3 to 30.7) for receiving a postnatal check-up within 24 hours of delivery. Country-specific coverage of the maternal services increased over time in most countries, but age-related differences persisted and even worsened in some, particularly in the Western Pacific (eg, Vietnam, Lao, Cambodia and Philippines).

Conclusion

Even though their pregnancies are of higher risk, adolescent girls continue to lag behind adult mothers in maternal service coverage, suggesting a need for age-appropriate strategies to engage adolescents in maternal care.

Immediate postnatal care following childbirth in Ugandan health facilities: an analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys between 2001 and 2016

Introduction

Progress in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, is insufficient to achieve the Sustainable Developmental Goals by 2030. The first 24 hours following childbirth (immediate postnatal period), where the majority of morbidity and mortality occurs, is critical for mothers and babies. In Uganda,<50% of women reported receiving such care. This paper describes the coverage, changes over time and determinants of immediate postnatal care in Uganda after facility births between 2001 and 2016.

Methods

We analysed the 2006, 2011 and 2016 Ugandan Demographic and Health Surveys, including women 15–49 years with most recent live birth in a healthcare facility during the survey 5-year recall period. Immediate postnatal care coverage and changes over time were presented descriptively. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine determinants of immediate postnatal care.

Results

Data from 12 872 mothers were analysed. Between 2006 and 2016, births in healthcare facilities increased from 44.6% (95% CI: 41.9% to 47.3%) to 75.2% (95% CI: 73.4% to 77.0%) and coverage of immediate maternal postnatal care from 35.7% (95% CI 33.4% to 38.1%) to 65.0% (95% CI: 63.2% to 66.7%). The majority of first checks occurred between 1 and 4 hours post partum; the median time reduced from 4 hours to 1 hour. The most important factor associated with receipt of immediate postnatal care was women having a caesarean section birth adjusted OR (aOR) 2.93 (95% CI: 2.28 to 3.75). Other significant factors included exposure to mass media aOR 1.38 (95% CI: 1.15 to 1.65), baby being weighed at birth aOR 1.84 (95% CI: 1.58 to 2.14) and receipt of antenatal care with 4+Antenatal visits aOR 2.34 (95% CI: 1.50 to 3.64).

Conclusion

In Uganda, a large gap in coverage remains and universal immediate postnatal care has not materialised through increasing facility-based births or longer length of stay. To ensure universal coverage of high-quality care during this critical time, we recommend that maternal and newborn services should be integrated and actively involve mothers and their partners.

Postnatal Care within One Week and Associated Factors among Women Who Gave Birth in Ameya District, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia, 2018: Cross Sectional Study

Background

Globally recorded large number of maternal and neonatal deaths are related to complications during pregnancy, childbirth and post-partum. Most neonatal deaths occur during the first week of life. It is also evidenced that the level of postnatal care utilization in Ethiopia is very low. This study aimed to assess postnatal care utilization within one week and associated factors among women who had given birth in the last six weeks in Ameya district, Oromia, Ethiopia.

Methods

Cross sectional study design was employed on 332 study participants who were selected by systemic sampling method and interviewed using structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the associated factors with the outcome variable. Figures, tables and sentences were used for the presentation of descriptive statistics.

Result

The finding revealed that the proportion of postnatal care utilization within one-week in the study area is 25.3%. Partner occupation [AOR=5.575, 95% CI= (1.071, 29.023)], mothers who had complication during labor and delivery[AOR=7.841, 95% CI= (2.287, 26.879)], distance from mothers to health facilities[AOR= 5.127, 95% CI= (1.149, 22.878)] and awareness on postnatal care within one week services[AOR=4.161, 95% CI= (1.300, 13.314)] were the main contributing factors of postnatal care utilization within one-week.

Conclusion

Postnatal care utilization within one-week is very low (25.3%). Partner occupation, complication during labor and delivery, distance from health facilities and awareness on postnatal care within one week service were the associated factors.

African midwifery students' self-assessed confidence in postnatal and newborn care: A multi-country survey

BACKGROUND

Majority of maternal and new-born deaths occur within 28 hours and one week after birth. These can be prevented by well-educated midwives. Confidence in postnatal and newborn care skills depend on the quality of midwifery education.

OBJECTIVE

To assess confidence and its associated factors for basic postnatal and new-born care skills of final year midwifery students , from seven African countries.

METHODS

A multi-country cross-sectional study where final year midwifery students answered a questionnaire consisting of basic skills of postnatal and newborn care listed by the International Confederation of Midwives. The postnatal care area had 16 and newborn care area had 19 skill statements. The 16 skills of postnatal care were grouped into three domains through principle component analysis (PCA); Basic postnatal care; postnatal complications and educating parents and documentation. The 19 skills under the newborn care area were grouped into three domains; Basic care and care for newborn complications; Support parents for newborn care; and Care for newborns of HIV positive mothers and documentation.

RESULTS

In total 1408 midwifery students from seven Sub-Saharan countries participated in the study namely; Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Somaliland Overall high confidence for all domains under Post Natal Care ranged from 30%-50% and for Newborn care from 39-55%. High confidence for postnatal skills was not found to be associated with any background variables (Age, sex, type and level of educational programme). High confidence for newborn care was associated with being female students, those aged 26-35 years, students from the direct entry programmes and those enrolled in diploma programmes.

CONCLUSIONS

Almost half of the study participants expressed lack of confidence for skills under postnatal and newborn care. No association was found between high confidence for domains of postnatal care and background variables. High confidence was associated with being a female, between 26-35 years of age, from direct entry or diploma programmes for newborn care area. The results of the study indicate gaps in midwifery education. Countries could use the ICM list of competencies to develop country specific standards for midwifery education. However, actual competence remains to be measured.

Do mothers who delivered at health facilities return to health facilities for postnatal care follow-up? A multilevel analysis of the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey

Introduction

Returning to health facility for postnatal care (PNC) use after giving birth at health facility could reflect the health seeking behavior of mothers. However, such studies are rare though they are critically important to develop vigorous strategies to improve PNC service utilization. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the magnitude and factors associated with returning to health facilities for PNC among mothers who delivered in Ethiopian health facilities after they were discharged.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data. A total of 2405mothers who gave birth in a health facility were included in this study. Multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression model was fitted to estimate both independent (fixed) effects of the explanatory variables and community-level (random) effects on return for PNC utilization. Variable with p-value of ≤ 0.25 from unadjusted multilevel logistic regression were selected to develop three models and p-value of ≤0.05 was used to declare significance of the explanatory variables on the outcome variable in the final (adjusted) model. Analysis was done using IBM SPSS statistics version 21.

Result

In this analysis, from the total 2405 participants, 14.3% ((95%CI: 12.1–16.8), (n = 344)) of them returned to health facilities for PNC use after they gave birth at a health facility. From the multilevel logistic regression analysis, being employed (AOR = 1.51, 95%CI: 1.04–2.19), receiving eight and above antenatal care visits (AOR = 2.90, 95%CI: 1.05–8.00), caesarean section delivery (AOR = 2.53, 95%CI: 1.40–4.58) and rural residence (AOR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.36–0.88) were found significantly associated with return to health facilities for PNC use among women who gave birth at health facility.

Conclusion

Facility-based PNC utilization among mothers who delivered at health facilities is low in Ethiopia. Both individual and community level variables were determined women to return to health facilities for PNC use. Thus, adopting context-specific strategies/policies could improve PNC utilization and should be paid a due focus.

Postpartum care content and delivery throughout the African continent: An integrative review

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review was to describe and evaluate the content of postpartum care and models of delivery throughout the African continent.

DESIGN

Integrative review was used to allow for the combination of studies using diverse research methodologies.

DATA SOURCES

A comprehensive search strategy using the phrases 'postpartum period', 'healthcare delivery', and 'Africa,' including all spelling variants and countries within the continent, was used in the following databases: PubMed, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature Plus, and Embase for studies published through September 2019.

REVIEW METHOD

The integrative review process included five stages: problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, data analysis and presentation. Twelve studies from eight African countries were identified in the search and met the inclusion criteria for the review. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to evaluate the quality of the studies included in the review. The theoretical framework developed by the World Health Organization Maternal Morbidity Working Group for healthcare interventions to address maternal morbidity was used for data analysis and to synthesize the results for presentation.

RESULTS

Definitions of the postpartum period varied among studies with service delivery ranging from six weeks to one year postpartum. There was no standard package of postpartum care across studies. Based on the World Health Organization theoretical framework, five primary topics were covered in postpartum care interventions: preventive care and counseling, health systems innovation, a life course approach, family planning, and health literacy and education. In contrast, five gaps in content of postpartum care services and service delivery included: integration of screening and treatment of noncommunicable diseases with maternal healthcare, intimate partner violence screening, social protection, a rights-based approach, and social vulnerability. No study addressed all aspects of the World Health Organization framework to address maternal morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS

The results from this review indicate the need to address gaps in postpartum care services throughout the African continent in order to reduce maternal morbidity. Re- conceptualizing the paradigm of maternal health to take a life course approach and focusing future research on developing and building interventions to target postpartum care and healthcare delivery of postpartum care are necessary and important in efforts to reduce maternal morbidity and improve health outcomes for mother and child.

Innovative approach for potential scale-up to jump-start simplified management of sick young infants with possible serious bacterial infection when a referral is not feasible: Findings from implementation research

BACKGROUND

Neonatal bacterial infections are a common cause of death, which can be managed well with inpatient treatment. Unfortunately, many families in low resource settings do not accept referral to a hospital. The World Health Organization (WHO) developed a guideline for management of young infants up to 2 months of age with possible serious bacterial infection (PSBI) when referral is not feasible. Government of Ethiopia with WHO evaluated the feasibility of implementing this guideline to increase coverage of treatment.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to implement a simplified antibiotic regimen (2 days gentamicin injection and 7 days oral amoxicillin) for management of sick young infants with PSBI in a programme setting when referral was not feasible to identify at least 80% of PSBI cases, achieve an overall adequate treatment coverage of at least 80% and document the challenges and opportunities for implementation at the community level in two districts in Tigray, Ethiopia.

METHODS

Using implementation research, we applied the PSBI guideline in a programme setting from January 2016 to August 2017 in Raya Alamata and Raya Azebo Woredas (districts) in Southern Tigray, Ethiopia with a population of 260884. Policy dialogue was held with decision-makers, programme implementers and stakeholders at federal, regional and district levels, and a Technical Support Unit (TSU) was established. Health Extension Workers (HEWs) working at the health posts and supervisors working at the health centres were trained in WHO guideline to manage sick young infants when referral was not feasible. Communities were sensitized towards appropriate home care.

RESULTS

We identified 854 young infants with any sign of PSBI in the study population of 7857 live births. The expected live births during the study period were 9821. Assuming 10% of neonates will have any sign of PSBI within the first 2 months of life (n = 982), the coverage of appropriate treatment of PSBI cases in our study area was 87% (854/982). Of the 854 sick young infants, 333 (39%) were taken directly to a hospital and 521 (61%) were identified by HEW at health posts. Of the 521 young infants, 27 (5.2%) had signs of critical illness, 181 (34.7%) had signs of clinical severe infection, whereas 313 (60.1%) young infants 7-59 days of age had only fast breathing pneumonia. All young infants with critical illness accepted referral to a hospital, while 117/181 (64.6%) infants with clinical severe infection accepted referral. Families of 64 (35.3%) infants with clinical severe infection refused referral and were treated at the health post with injectable gentamicin for 2 days plus oral amoxicillin for 7 days. All 64 completed recommended gentamicin doses and 63/64 (98%) completed recommended amoxicillin doses. Of 313 young infants, 7-59 days with pneumonia who were treated by the HEWs without referral with oral amoxicillin for 7 days, 310 (99%) received all 14 doses. No deaths were reported among those treated on an outpatient basis at health posts. But 35/477 (7%) deaths occurred among young infants treated at hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

When referral is not feasible, young infants with PSBI can be managed appropriately at health posts by HEWs in the existing health system in Ethiopia with high coverage, low treatment failure and a low case fatality rate. Moreover, fast breathing pneumonia in infants 7-59 days of age can be successfully treated at the health post without referral. Relatively higher mortality in sick young infants at the referral level health facilities warrants further investigation.

Magnitude and Determinants of Postnatal Care Service Utilization Among Women Who Gave Birth in the Last 12 Months in Northern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction

The postnatal period is the first 6 weeks (42 days) following delivery of a baby. The first hours, days and weeks after childbirth are the most critical times for both the mother and newborn infants. Most maternal and neonatal deaths occur during the first 24 hours after childbirth.

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the magnitude and its determinants of postnatal care service utilization among women who gave birth in the last 12 months from May 1 to 21, 2019, in the Northern part of Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 413 women who had given birth in the previous 12 months. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected by using a semi-structured questionnaire adopted from UNICEF and similar studies Data were entered, cleaned and coded into EPI info version 3.5 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Logistic regression was applied to identify associations between explanatory variable and the outcome variable. Statistical significance was declared at p<0.05 and 95% CI.

Results

In this study, the magnitude of postnatal care service utilization was 37%. A live birth outcome AOR (95% CI) =5.7 (1.53,21.216), maternal educational AOR (95% CI)=3.3 (1.90,5.60) household income >1,500 ETB per month AOR (95% CI)=2.9 (1.20,6.70), a planned and supported pregnancy AOR (95% CI)=3.9 (1.71,9.01) and last pregnancy of facility delivered AOR= (95% CI)=3.1 (1.25,7.70) are positively associated with utilization of postnatal care services.

Conclusion

The major determinant factors that affect utilization of PNC identified in this study include monthly income of household, last pregnancy birth outcome, educational status of the mother, wantedness of the pregnancy and place of delivery were significantly associated with postnatal care service utilization. To improve PNC service utilization and to minimize maternal and neonatal mortality, mothers should be made aware about postnatal care services.

Stakeholder analysis in health innovation planning processes: A systematic scoping review

Integrating health innovations into the health system is a complex endeavour that requires a well-designed planning process engaging key stakeholders. Stakeholder analyses lay the foundations to inform appropriate planning processes and undertake strategic actions. A systematic scoping review was performed to explore how stakeholder analyses are applied in health innovation planning processes and a guideline to report stakeholder analyses was developed. The literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus and DOAJ; grey literature was sought using Google. Articles reporting stakeholder analyses during the planning process of health policies, systems, products and technologies, and services and delivery methods were included. Fifty-one records were incorporated in the qualitative synthesis. Stakeholder analyses were conducted worldwide, used in all types of health innovations, applied in all phases of the planning process and conducted both prospectively and retrospectively. The steps followed to perform stakeholder analysis, the methods used, the stakeholder attributes analysed and how authors reported the analyses were heterogeneous. Forty-one studies reported the identification of stakeholders, 50 differentiated/categorised them and 25 analysed stakeholder relationships. Only some authors proposed future actions based on the results obtained in their stakeholder analysis. A list of Reporting Items for Stakeholder Analysis (i.e., the RISA tool) is proposed to contribute to the reporting guidelines to enhancing the quality and transparency of health research.

Early Resumption of Sexual Intercourse and Its Associated Factors Among Postpartum Women in Western Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Women are often forced to recommence sexual intercourse after childbirth to maintain intimacy and fulfill their partners’ desires. Early resumption of postpartum sexual intercourse leads to sexual health problems and unwanted pregnancy if not complemented with appropriate contraceptive use. However, sexual practice during the early postpartum period has received little attention in clinical and research settings. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the early resumption of sexual intercourse and its associated factors among postpartum women attending public health institutions in Nekemte town, Western Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was carried out from March to April 2019. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 528 postpartum women. An interviewer-administered, pretested, and structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were coded and entered into Epi Info 7.2.1, and exported to SPSS version 20.0 to run bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions.

Results

One in five postpartum women (20.2%, 95% CI: 17.1–23.6) practiced an early resumption of sexual intercourse, of whom three-fifths (58%) did not use any contraceptives. Women’s secondary education (AOR=0.22, 95% CI: 0.07–0.71), husband’s elementary (AOR=0.23, 95% CI: 0.06–0.87) and secondary education (AOR=0.25, 95% CI: 0.07–0.88), as well as women’s fertility status (parity of one) (AOR=3.52, 95% CI: 1.24–10.01), normal vaginal delivery (AOR=5.44, 95% CI: 1.84–16.12), giving birth to a male child (AOR=1.94, 95% CI: 1.05–3.60), desire for another child (AOR=5.71, 95% CI: 1.89–17.25), and pressure from the husband to initiate intercourse (AOR=9.89, 95% CI: 4.99–19.58) were significantly associated with early resumption of sexual intercourse.

Conclusion

A significant proportion of postpartum women who resume early sexual intercourse do not use any contraceptives. Interventions that focus on strengthening the integration of postpartum sexual health education and service use are warranted.

The impact of the obstetrical risk insurance scheme in Mauritania on maternal healthcare utilization: a propensity score matching analysis

In Mauritania, obstetrical risk insurance (ORI) has been progressively implemented at the health district level since 2002 and was available in 25% of public healthcare facilities in 2015. The ORI scheme is based on pre-payment scheme principles and focuses on increasing the quality of and access to both maternal and perinatal healthcare. Compared with many community-based health insurance schemes, the ORI scheme is original because it is not based on risk pooling. For a pre-payment of 16-18 USD, women are covered during their pregnancy for antenatal care, skilled delivery, emergency obstetrical care [including caesarean section (C-section) and transfer] and a postnatal visit. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of ORI enrolment on maternal and child health services using data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted in 2015. A total of 4172 women who delivered within the last 2 years before the interview were analysed. The effect of ORI enrolment on the outcomes was estimated using a propensity score matching estimation method. Fifty-eight per cent of the studied women were aware of ORI, and among these women, more than two-thirds were enrolled. ORI had a beneficial effect among the enrolled women by increasing the probability of having at least one prenatal visit by 13%, the probability of having four or more visits by 11% and the probability of giving birth at a healthcare facility by 15%. However, we found no effect on postnatal care (PNC), C-section rates or neonatal mortality. This study provides evidence that a voluntary pre-payment scheme focusing on pregnant women improves healthcare services utilization during pregnancy and delivery. However, no effect was found on PNC or neonatal mortality. Some efforts should be exerted to improve communication and accessibility to ORI.

Magnitude and determinants for place of postnatal care utilization among mothers who delivered at home in Ethiopia: a multinomial analysis from the 2016 Ethiopian demographic health survey

Introduction

Above half of mothers in Ethiopia give birth at home. Home based care within the first week after birth as a complementary strategy to facility-based postnatal care service is critical to increase the survival of both mothers and newborns. However, evidence on utilization of postnatal care and location of service among mothers who delivered at home in Ethiopia is insufficiently documented. Therefore, this study assessed the magnitude and determinants for place of postnatal care service utilization among mothers who delivered at home in Ethiopia.

Methods

We used the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey, and extracted data from 4491 mothers who delivered at home during 5 years preceding the survey. A multinomial logistic regression model was applied to examine the determinants of both facility and home -based postnatal care service utilization. Likelihood ratio test was used to see the model fitness and p-value of < 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance at 95% confidence interval.

Results

From the total 4491 mothers who delivered at home, only 130(2.9%) and 236(5.3%) of them utilized postnatal service at home and at a health facility respectively. Being from an urban region (AOR = 0.378, 95%CI: 0.193–0.740), ever using the calendar method to delay pregnancy (AOR = 0.528, 95%CI: 0.337–0.826), receiving four and above antenatal care visits (AOR = 0.245, 95%CI: 0.145–0.413) and having a bank account (AOR = 0.479, 95%CI: 0.243–0.943) were the factors associated with utilizing home- based postnatal care. Similarly being a follower of the orthodox religion (AOR = 1.698, 95%CI: 1.137–2.536), being in the rich wealth index (AOR = 0.608, 95%CI: 0.424–0.873), ever using the calendar method to delay pregnancy (AOR = 0.694, 95%CI: 0.499–0.966), wantedness of the pregnancy (AOR = 0.264, 95%CI: 0.352–0.953), receiving four and above antenatal care visits (AOR = 0.264, 95%CI: 0.184–0.380) and listening to radio at least once a week (AOR = 0.652, 95%CI: 0.432–0.984) were the determinants of facility-based postnatal care utilization.

Conclusion

The coverage of postnatal care service utilization among mothers who delivered at home was very low. Living in urban region, following the Orthodox religion, having higher wealth index, having a bank account, ever using calendar method to delay pregnancy, wantedness of the pregnancy, receiving four and above antenatal care visit and listening to radio at least weakly were associated with postnatal care service utilization. Therefore, targeted measures to improve socio-economic status, strengthen the continuum of care, and increase health literacy communication are critically important to increase postnatal care service utilization among women who deliver at home in Ethiopia.

Disrespect and abuse during facility-based childbirth in southern Mozambique: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that many women experience mistreatment during childbirth in health facilities across the world, but the magnitude of the problem is unknown. The occurrence of disrespect and abuse (D&A) in maternity care services affects the overall quality of care and may undermine women's trust in the health system. Studies about the occurrence of disrespect and abuse in Mozambican health facilities are scarce. The aim of this study was to explore the experience of women giving birth in hospital in different settings in Maputo City and Province, Mozambique.

METHODS

A cross sectional descriptive survey was conducted between April and June 2018 in the Central Hospital of Maputo (HCM) and district hospitals of Manhiça and Marracuene, Maputo Province, Mozambique. Five hundred seventy-two exit interviews were conducted with women leaving the hospital after delivery. The questionnaire consisted of the following components: socio-demographic characteristics, the occurrence of disrespect and abuse, male involvement during labor and childbirth and intrapartum family planning counselling and provision.

RESULTS

Prevalence of disrespect and abuse ranged from 24% in the central hospital to 80% in the district hospitals. The main types of D&A reported were lack of confidentiality/privacy, being left alone, being shouted at/scolded, and being given a treatment without permission. While very few women's partners attended the births, the majority of women (73-80%) were in favor of involving their partner as a birth companion. Intrapartum counseling of family planning was very low (9-17%).

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of disrespect and abuse was much higher in the district hospitals compared to the central hospital, emphasizing the high need for interventions outside Maputo City. Allowing male partners as birth companions should be explored further, as women seem in favor of involving their partners. Investing in intrapartum counselling for family planning is currently a missed opportunity for improving the uptake of contraception in the country.

Assessing changes in costs of maternal postpartum services between 2013 and 2014 in Burkina Faso

Introduction

In Africa, a majority of women bring their infant to health services for immunization, but few are checked in the postpartum (PP) period. The Missed opportunities for maternal and infant health (MOMI) EU-funded project has implemented a package of interventions at community and facility levels to uptake maternal and infant postpartum care (PPC). One of these interventions is the integration of maternal PPC in child clinics and infant immunization services, which proved to be successful for improving maternal and infant PPC.

Aim

Taking stock of the progress achieved in terms of PPC with the implementation of the interventions, this paper assesses the economic cost of maternal PPC services, for health services and households, before and after the project start in Kaya health district (Burkina Faso).

Methods

PPC costs to health services are estimated using secondary data on personnel and infrastructure and primary data on time allocation. Data from two household surveys collected before and after one year intervention among mothers within one year PP are used to estimate the household cost of maternal PPC visits. We also compare PPC costs for households and health services with or without integration. We focus on the costs of the PPC intervention at days 6–10 that was most successful.

Results

The average unit cost of health services for days 6–10 maternal PPC decreased from 4.6 USD before the intervention in 2013 (Jan-June) to 3.5 USD after the intervention implementation in 2014. Maternal PPC utilization increased with the implementation of the interventions but so did days 6–10 household mean costs. Similarly, the household costs increased with the integration of maternal PPC to BCG immunization.

Conclusion

In the context of growing reproductive health expenditures from many funding sources in Burkina Faso, the uptake of maternal PPC led to a cost reduction, as shown for days 6–10, at health services level. Further research should determine whether the increase in costs for households would be deterrent to the use of integrated maternal and infant PPC.

Provision of postpartum care to women giving birth in health facilities in sub-Saharan Africa: A cross-sectional study using Demographic and Health Survey data from 33 countries

BACKGROUND

Postpartum care has the potential to avert a substantial proportion of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. There is a crucial gap in understanding the quality of postpartum care for women giving birth in health facilities in low- and middle-income settings. This is particularly the case in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where the levels of maternal and neonatal mortality are highest globally despite rapid increases in facility-based childbirth. This study estimated the percentage of women receiving a postpartum health check following childbirth in a health facility in SSA and examined the determinants of receiving such check.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We used the most recent Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in 33 SSA countries between 2000-2016. We estimated the percentage of women receiving a postpartum check by a health professional while in the childbirth facility and the associated 95% confidence interval (CI) for each country. We analyzed determinants of receiving such checks using logistic regression of the pooled data. The analysis sample included 137,218 women whose most recent live birth in the 5- year period before the survey took place in a health facility. Of this pooled sample, 65.7% of women were under 30 years of age, 85.9% were currently married, and 57% resided in rural areas. Across countries, the median percentage of women who reported receiving a check was 71.7%, ranging from 26.6% in Eswatini (Swaziland) to 94.4% in Burkina Faso. The most fully adjusted model showed that factors from all four conceptual categories (obstetric/neonatal risk factors, care environment, and women's sociodemographic and child-related characteristics) were significant determinants of receiving a check. Women with a cesarean section had a significantly higher adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 1.88 (95% CI 1.72-2.05, p < 0.001) of receiving a check. Women giving birth in lower-level public facilities had lower odds of receiving a check (aOR 0.94, 95% CI 0.90-0.98, p = 0.002) compared to those in public hospitals, as did women attended by a nurse/midwife (compared to doctor/nonphysician clinician) (aOR 0.74, 95% CI 0.69-0.78, p < 0.001). This study was limited by the accuracy of the respondent's recall of the provider, timing, and receipt of postpartum checks. The outcome of interest was measured using three slightly different question sets across the 33 included countries.

CONCLUSIONS

The suboptimal levels of postpartum checks in health facilities in many of the included SSA countries partially reflect the lack of importance given to postpartum care in the global discourse on essential interventions and quality improvement in maternal health. Addressing disparities in access to both facility-based childbirth and good-quality postpartum care in SSA is critical to addressing stalling declines in maternal mortality and morbidity.

Factors associated with the utilization of postnatal care services among Malawian women

Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that every woman be checked after the delivery of a child. However, only 42% of Malawian women are checked by a skilled health worker within 48 hours after delivery. This study aimed at identifying factors associated with postnatal care (PNC) utilization among Malawian women by using nationally representative data.

Methods

Secondary data from the 2015-2016 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey (MDHS) was used for the study. A logistic regression model was used to find the adjusted odds of utilizing PNC services among the women. All the analyses controlled for the survey clusters and weighting. All the analyses were conducted in STATA version 14 at a significance level of 5%.

Results

Out of the 6,693 women who had a live birth 24 months prior to the 2015-2016 MDHS, only 48.4% were checked by a skilled health worker within 42 days after delivery. Uptake of PNC was significantly associated with older age, being employed, living in an urban area, delivery through caesarean section, a timely first antenatal care (ANC) visit, uptake of recommended number of ANC visits, and receiving the adequate number of tetanus injections.

Conclusion

Interventions to increase utilization of PNC services should be tailored to appropriate populations. Particularly, special focus has to be made towards younger women, the women who reside in the rural areas, who are not employed, and who are generally not well to do. Behavioural change interventions must also target women with low perceived risk after delivery. Information should also be consistently provided by health workers in communities and health facilities to women on perinatal care in order to change the women's risk perception on all levels of pregnancy care and to encourage utilization of relevant health services.

Postnatal care service utilization and associated factors among women who gave birth in Debretabour town, North West Ethiopia: a community- based cross-sectional study

Background

World health organization stated that postnatal care is defined as a care given to the mother and her newborn baby immediately after the birth of the placenta and for the first six weeks of life. Majority of maternal and neonatal deaths occur during childbirth and the postpartum period. Scaling up of maternal and newborn health through proper postnatal care services is the best way of reducing maternal and neonatal mortality.

Method

A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 588 mothers who gave birth in the last one year from March 1–21; 2017. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants. A pre-tested and structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data was entered in EPI info version 7 and analyzed using SPSS version 21. Logistic regression was applied to identify association between explanatory variables and the outcome variable. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and p-value less than 0.05 was computed to determine the level of significance.

Result

A total of 588 participants were included in the analysis which was the response rate of 100%.

The prevalence of postnatal care service utilization in this study was 57.5%.

Maternal educational status of secondary school and above (AOR = 3.29, 95%CI: 1.94–5.57), family monthly income of above 1500 ETB (AOR = 2.85, 95%CI: 1.21–6.68), alive birth outcome of last pregnancy (AOR = 5.70, 95%CI: 1.53–21.216), planned and supported last pregnancy (AOR = 3.94, 95%CI: 1.72–9.01) and institutional delivery of last pregnancy (AOR = 3.08, 95%CI: 1.24–7.68) were positively associated with PNC service utilization.

Conclusion

This study showed that the overall utilization of PNC service in Debretabour town is low. Mothers’ education, monthly income, last pregnancy birth outcome, wantedness of the pregnancy and place of delivery were significantly associated with postnatal care service utilization. To enhance PNC service utilization and reduce maternal and neonatal mortality women should obtain appropriate education. Furthermore all pregnant women should give birth in the health facilities.

"Our voices matter": a before-after assessment of the effect of a community-participatory intervention to promote uptake of maternal and child health services in Kwale, Kenya

Background

Community-participatory approaches are important for effective maternal and child health interventions. A community-participatory intervention (the Dialogue Model) was implemented in Kwale County, Kenya to enhance uptake of select maternal and child health services among women of reproductive age.

Methods

Community volunteers were trained to facilitate Dialogue Model sessions in community units associated with intervention health facilities in Matuga, Kwale. Selection of intervention facilities was purposive based on those that had an active community unit in existence. For each facility, uptake of family planning, antenatal care and facility-based delivery as reported in the District Health Information System (DHIS)-2 was compared pre- (October 2012 – September 2013) versus post- (January – December 2016) intervention implementation using a paired sample t-test.

Results

Between October 2013 and December 2015, a total of 570 Dialogue Model sessions were held in 12 community units associated with 10 intervention facilities. The median [interquartile range (IQR)] number of sessions per month per facility was 2 (1–3). Overall, these facilities reported 15, 2 and 74% increase in uptake of family planning, antenatal care and facility-based deliveries, respectively. This was statistically significant for family planning pre- (Mean (M) = 1014; Standard deviation (SD) = 381) versus post- (M = 1163; SD = 400); t (18) = − 0.603, P = 0.04) as well as facility-based deliveries pre- (M = 185; SD = 216) versus post- (M = 323; SD = 384); t (18) = − 0.698, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

A structured, community-participatory intervention enhanced uptake of family planning services and facility-based deliveries in a rural Kenyan setting. This approach is useful in addressing demand-side factors by providing communities with a stake in influencing their health outcomes.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-018-3739-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Integration of postpartum care into child health and immunization services in Burkina Faso: findings from a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The Missed Opportunities for Maternal and Infant Health (MOMI) project, which aimed at upgrading maternal and infant postpartum care (PPC), implemented a package of interventions including the integration of maternal PPC in infant immunization services in 12 health facilities in Kaya Health district in Burkina Faso from 2013 to 2015. This paper assesses the coverage and the quality of combined mother-infant PPC in reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health services (RMNCH).

METHODS

We conducted a mixed methods study with cross-sectional surveys before and after the intervention in the Kaya health and demographic surveillance system. On the quantitative side, two household surveys were performed in 2012 (N = 757) and in 2014 (N = 754) among mothers within one year postpartum. The analysis examines the result of the intervention by the date of delivery at three key time points in the PPC schedule: the first 48 h, days 6-10 and during weeks 6-8 and beyond. On the qualitative side, in depth interviews, focus group discussions and observations were conducted in four health facilities in 2012 and 2015. They involved mothers in the postpartum period, facility and community health workers, and other stakeholders. We performed a descriptive analysis and a two-sample test of proportions of the quantitative data. The qualitative data were recorded, transcribed and analysed along the themes relevant for the intervention.

RESULTS

The findings show that the WHO guidelines, in terms of content and improvement of maternal PPC, were followed for physical examinations and consultations. They also show a significant increase in the coverage of maternal PPC services from 50% (372/752) before the intervention to 81% (544/672) one year after the start of the intervention. However, more women were assessed at days 6-10 than at later visits. Integration of maternal PPC was low, with little improvements in history taking and physical examination of mothers in immunization services. While health workers are polyvalent, difficulties in restructuring and organizing services hindered the integration.

CONCLUSION

Unless a comprehensive strategy of integration within RMNCH services is implemented to address the primary health care challenges within the health system, integration will not yield the desired results.

Correlates of facility-based delivery among women of reproductive age from the Digo community residing in Kwale, Kenya

Objective

This study sought to describe factors associated with facility-based delivery among women of reproductive age in Kwale County, Kenya.

Results

Between March and December 2015, 745 women from 15 villages were interviewed through a cross-sectional household survey. Respondents were selected using stratified, systematic sampling and completed a sexual and reproductive health questionnaire. Of 632 (85%) women who had a previous birth, 619 (98%) reported antenatal care attendance. Of these, 491 (79%) subsequently had a facility-based delivery. Factors associated with increased likelihood of facility delivery included respondent’s education (odds ratio, OR = 2.0, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.2–3.2, P = 0.004), ideal antenatal care attendance (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.4–3.7, P = 0.001) and pregnancy intention (OR = 1.5, 95% CI 1.0–2.2, P = 0.040). Being in a polygamous relationship (OR = 0.6, 95% CI 0.3–0.9, P = 0.024) and having a husband ≥ 40 years (OR = 0.5, 95% CI 0.3–0.9, P = 0.013) were associated with reduced likelihood of facility delivery. Respondent’s education (aOR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.1–3.3, P = 0.030) as well as ideal ANC attendance (aOR = 2.0, 95% CI 1.0–3.8, P = 0.040) remained significantly associated with facility delivery in multivariate analyses.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-018-3818-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Improved postpartum care after a participatory facilitation intervention in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: a mixed method evaluation

Background: In order to improve the health and survival of mothers/newborns, the quality and attendance rates of postpartum care (PPC) must be increased, particularly in low-resource settings.

Objective: To describe outcomes of a collegial facilitation intervention to improve PPC in government-owned health institutions in a low-resource suburb in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Methods: A before-and-after evaluation of an intervention and comparison group was conducted using mixed methods (focus group discussions, questionnaires, observations, interviews, and field-notes) at health institutions. Maternal and child health aiders, enrolled nurse midwives, registered nurse midwives, and medical and clinical officers participated. A collegial facilitation intervention was conducted and healthcare providers were organized in teams to improve PPC at their workplaces. Facilitators defined areas of improvement with colleagues and met regularly with a supervisor for support.

Results: The number of mothers visiting the institution for PPC increased in the intervention group. Some care actions were noted in more than 80% of the observations and mothers reported high satisfaction with care. In the comparison group, PPC continued to be next to non-existent. The healthcare providers’ knowledge increased in both groups but was higher in the intervention group. The t-test showed a significant difference in knowledge between the intervention and comparison groups and between before and after the intervention in both groups. The difference of differences for knowledge was 1.3. The providers perceived the intervention outcomes to include growing professional confidence/knowledge, improved PPC quality, and mothers’ positive response. The quality grading was based on the national guidelines and involved nine experts and showed that none of the providers reached the level of good quality of care.

Conclusions: The participatory facilitation intervention contributed to improved quality of PPC, healthcare providers’ knowledge and professional confidence, awareness of PPC among mothers, and increased PPC attendance.

[Is the fight against maternal mortality in Burkina Faso adapted to reduce the three delays?]

OBJECTIVE

Maternal mortality remains high in Burkina Faso despite numerous interventions designed to reduce this mortality. It therefore appeared important to analyse attempts to lower maternal mortality in Burkina Faso over the last fifteen years in order to identify the strengths and weaknesses and to improve the national programme.

METHODS

Analysis according to the ?three delays? model using the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats method was conducted. Data sources were scientific publications as well as national gray literature.

RESULTS

Many studies have identified factors predisposing to the first delay, but very few effective interventions covering all of the country have been conducted to reduce this delay. The development of infrastructures, a rapid transfer system and integration of the cost of transfer into the cost of delivery subsidy were interventions designed to reduce the second delay. The promotion of blood transfusion, emergency obstetric and neonatal care, an increased number of trained health professionals, delegation of tasks, subsidy and then free delivery costs were interventions designed to reduce the third delay. The analysis globally demonstrated that interventions on the first delay were insufficient and rarely implemented and weaknesses were observed in relation to the intervention designed to act on the last two delays.

CONCLUSION

Due to their inadequacy and poor quality, the interventions failed to significantly reduce the three delays. Priority needs to be given to new interventions, especially community-based interventions, and reinforcement of the quality of care by health training.

Program assessment of efforts to improve the quality of postpartum counselling in health centers in Morogoro region, Tanzania

BACKGROUND

The postpartum period represents a critical window where many maternal and child deaths occur. We assess the quality of postpartum care (PPC) as well as efforts to improve service delivery through additional training and supervision in Health Centers (HCs) in Morogoro Region, Tanzania.

METHODS

Program implementers purposively selected nine program HCs for assessment with another nine HCs in the region remaining as comparison sites in a non-randomized program evaluation. PPC quality was assessed by examining structural inputs; provider and client profiles; processes (PNC counselling) and outcomes (patient knowledge) through direct observations of equipment, supplies and infrastructure (n = 18) and PPC counselling (n = 45); client exit interviews (n = 41); a provider survey (n = 62); and in-depth provider interviews (n = 10).

RESULTS

While physical infrastructure, equipment and supplies were comparable across study sites (with water and electricity limitations), program areas had better availability of drugs and commodities. Overall, provider availability was also similar across study sites, with 63% of HCs following staffing norms, 17% of Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) providers absent and 14% of those providing PPC being unqualified to do so. In the program area, a median of 4 of 10 RCH providers received training. Despite training and supervisory inputs to program area HCs, provider and client knowledge of PPC was low and the content of PPC counseling provided limited to 3 of 80 PPC messages in over half the consultations observed. Among women attending PPC, 29 (71%) had delivered in a health facility and sought care a median of 13 days after delivery. Barriers to PPC care seeking included perceptions that PPC was of limited benefit to women and was primarily about child health, geographic distance, gaps in the continuity of care, and harsh facility treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Program training and supervision activities had a modest effect on the quality of PPC. To achieve broader transformation in PPC quality, client perceptions about the value of PPC need to be changed; the content of recommended PPC messages reviewed along with the location for PPC services; gaps in the availability of human resources addressed; and increased provider-client contact encouraged.

Sociocultural barriers to maternity services delivery: a qualitative meta-synthesis of the literature

OBJECTIVES

Maternal and neonatal healthcare outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remain poor despite decades of different health service delivery interventions and stakeholder investments. Qualitative studies have attributed these results, at least in part, to sociocultural beliefs and practices. Thus there is a need to understand, from an overarching perspective, how these sociocultural beliefs affect maternal and neonatal health (MNH) outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

A qualitative meta-synthesis of primary studies on cultural beliefs and practices associated with maternal and neonatal health care was carried out, incorporating research conducted in any country within SSA, using data from men, women and health professionals gathered through focus group discussions, structured and semistructured interviews.

METHODS

A systematic search was carried out on seven electronic databases, Scopus, Ovid Medline, PubMed, CINAHL Plus, Humanities and Social Sciences (Informit), EMBASE and Web of Science, and on Google Scholar, using both manual and electronic methods, between 1st January 1990 and 1st January 2017. The terms 'cultural beliefs'; 'cultural beliefs AND maternal health'; 'cultural beliefs OR maternal health'; 'traditional practices' and 'maternal health' were used in the search.

RESULTS

Key components of cultural beliefs and practices associated with adverse health outcomes on pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period were identified in five overarching factors: (a) pregnancy secrecy; (b) labour complications attributed to infidelity; (c) mothers' autonomy and reproductive services; (d) marital status, trust in traditional medicines and traditional birth attendants; and (e) intergenerational beliefs attached to the 'ordeal' of giving birth.

CONCLUSION

Cultural beliefs and practices related to maternal and neonatal health care are intergenerational. Therefore, intensive community-specific education strategies to facilitate behaviour changes are required for improved MNH outcomes. Adopting practical approaches such as involving husbands/partners and communities in antenatal care services in a health facility and community settings can enhance improved MNH outcomes.

Progress and priorities for reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health in Kenya: a Countdown to 2015 country case study

Background

Progress in reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health (RMNCH) in Kenya has been inconsistent over the past two decades, despite the global push to foster accountability, reduce child mortality, and improve maternal health in an equitable manner. Although several cross-sectional assessments have been done, a systematic analysis of RMNCH in Kenya was needed to better understand the push and pull factors that govern intervention coverage and influence mortality trends. As such, we aimed to determine coverage and impact of key RMNCH interventions between 1990 and 2015.

Methods

We did a comprehensive, systematic assessment of RMNCH in Kenya from 1990 to 2015, using data from nationally representative Demographic Health Surveys done between 1989 and 2014. For comparison, we used modelled mortality estimates from the UN Inter-Agency Groups for Child and Maternal Mortality Estimation. We estimated time trends for key RMNCH indicators, as defined by Countdown to 2015, at both the national and the subnational level, and used linear regression methods to understand the determinants of change in intervention coverage during the past decade. Finally, we used the Lives Saved Tool (LiST) to model the effect of intervention scale-up by 2030.

Findings

After an increase in mortality between 1990 and 2003, there was a reversal in all mortality trends from 2003 onwards, although progress was not substantial enough for Kenya to achieve Millennium Development Goal targets 4 or 5. Between 1990 and 2015, maternal mortality declined at half the rate of under-5 mortality, and changes in neonatal mortality were even slower. National-level trends in intervention coverage have improved, although some geographical inequities remain, especially for counties comprising the northeastern, eastern, and northern Rift Valley regions. Disaggregation of intervention coverage by wealth quintile also revealed wide inequities for several health-systems-based interventions, such as skilled birth assistance. Multivariable analyses of predictors of change in family planning, skilled birth assistance, and full vaccination suggested that maternal literacy and family size are important drivers of positive change in key interventions across the continuum of care. LiST analyses clearly showed the importance of quality of care around birth for maternal and newborn survival.

Interpretation

Intensified and focused efforts are needed for Kenya to achieve the RMNCH targets for 2030. Kenya must build on its previous progress to further reduce mortality through the widespread implementation of key preventive and curative interventions, especially those pertaining to labour, delivery, and the first day of life. Deliberate targeting of the poor, least educated, and rural women, through the scale-up of community-level interventions, is needed to improve equity and accelerate progress.

Funding

US Fund for UNICEF, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Pattern and determinants of contraceptive usage among women of reproductive age from the Digo community residing in Kwale, Kenya: results from a cross-sectional household survey

Background

Contraceptive usage has been associated with improved maternal and child health (MCH) outcomes. Despite significant resources being allocated to programs, there has been sub-optimal uptake of contraception, especially in the developing world. It is important therefore, to granulate factors that determine uptake and utilization of contraceptive services so as to inform effective programming.

Methods

Between March and December 2015, we conducted a cross-sectional survey among women of reproductive age (WRA) from the Digo community residing in Kwale County, Kenya. The study aimed to describe the pattern and determinants of contraceptive usage in this population. Respondents were selected using stratified, systematic sampling and completed a household sexual and reproductive health (SRH) questionnaire.

Results

We interviewed 745 respondents from 15 villages in 2 out of 4 sub-counties of Kwale. Their median (interquartile range, IQR) age was 29 (23–37) years. 568 (76%) reported being currently in a marital union. Among these, 308 (54%) were using a contraceptive method. The total unmet need, unmet need for spacing and for limiting was 16%, 8% and 8%, respectively. Determinants of contraceptive usage were education [adjusted Odds Ratio, aOR = 2.1, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.4–3.4, P = 0.001]; having children [aOR = 5.0, 95% CI: 1.7–15.0, P = 0.004]; having attended antenatal care (ANC) at last delivery [aOR = 4.0, 95% CI: 1.1–14.8, P = 0.04] as well as intention to stop or delay future birth [aOR = 6.7, 95% CI: 3.3–13.8, P < 0.0001].

Conclusions

We found high levels of contraceptive usage among WRA from the Digo community residing in Kwale. To further improve uptake and utilization of contraception in this setting, programs should address demand-side factors including ensuring female educational attainment as well as promotion of ANC and skilled birth attendance.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12905-017-0497-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Improving postpartum care delivery and uptake by implementing context-specific interventions in four countries in Africa: a realist evaluation of the Missed Opportunities in Maternal and Infant Health (MOMI) project

Postpartum care (PPC) has remained relatively neglected in many interventions designed to improve maternal and neonatal health in sub-Saharan Africa. The Missed Opportunities in Maternal and Infant Health project developed and implemented a context-specific package of health system strengthening and demand generation in four African countries, aiming to improve access and quality of PPC. A realist evaluation was conducted to enable nuanced understanding of the influence of different contextual factors on both the implementation and impacts of the interventions. Mixed methods were used to collect data and test hypothesised context–mechanism–outcome configurations: 16 case studies (including interviews, observations, monitoring data on key healthcare processes and outcomes), monitoring data for all study health facilities and communities, document analysis and participatory evaluation workshops. After evaluation in individual countries, a cross-country analysis was conducted that led to the development of four middle-range theories. Community health workers (CHWs) were key assets in shifting demand for PPC by ‘bridging’ communities and facilities. Because they were chosen from the community they served, they gained trust from the community and an intrinsic sense of responsibility. Furthermore, if a critical mass of women seek postpartum healthcare as a result of the CHWs bridging function, a ‘buzz’ for change is created, leading eventually to the acceptability and perceived value of attending for PPC that outweighs the costs of attending the health facility. On the supply side, rigid vertical hierarchies and defined roles for health facility workers (HFWs) impede integration of maternal and infant health services. Additionally, HFWs fear being judged negatively which overrides the self-efficacy that could potentially be gained from PPC training. Instead the main driver of HFWs’ motivation to provide comprehensive PPC is dependent on accountability systems for delivering PPC created by other programmes. The realist evaluation offers insights into some of the contextual factors that can be pivotal in enabling the community-level and service-level interventions to be effective.

Predictors of exclusive breastfeeding and consumption of soft, semi-solid or solid food among infants in Boucle du Mouhoun, Burkina Faso: A cross-sectional survey

INTRODUCTION

Exclusive breastfeeding is among the most effective interventions for preventing child mortality. The objectives of this paper are to describe infant feeding knowledge and practices in Boucle du Mouhoun, Burkina Faso; to identify predictors of exclusive breastfeeding among infants <6 months, and consumption of soft, semi-solid or solid food among infants 6-11 months; to describe mothers' sources of information regarding breastfeeding.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey (n = 2288) of a representative sample of women aged 15-49 years with at least one live birth in past year took place during June and July 2015. Crude and multivariable random-effects logistic regressions were used to identify factors predictive of exclusive breastfeeding and consumption of soft, semi-solid or solid food.

RESULTS

30% of infants <6 months were exclusively breastfed; 67% of infants age 6-11 months consumed soft, semi-solid or solid food the day and night before the interview. 2% of infants age 6-11 months had a minimum acceptable diet. There was strong evidence of a positive association between knowledge and practice of exclusive breastfeeding, nonetheless 60% of mothers who correctly identified that an infant should be exclusively breastfed for 6 months did not breastfeed their infant exclusively. Only 42% of mothers reported receiving advice on breastfeeding from a health worker, despite all mothers having contact with a health worker at least once during pregnancy or postpartum.

CONCLUSION

Given poor practices and low levels of knowledge, targeted interventions are needed to improve infant nutrition in Boucle du Mouhoun during antenatal, delivery and postnatal care. Most women now deliver in a facility in Burkina Faso; increased attention should be paid to ensuring that existing guidelines relating to support and counselling for infant feeding are adhered to. Factors such as social norms are also important and these should be investigated in more detail using qualitative methods.

A cross-sectional mixed study of the opportunity to improve maternal postpartum care in reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health services in the Kaya health district of Burkina Faso

OBJECTIVE

To propose a rationale to improve maternal postpartum care in reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health (RMNCH) services.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional mixed study in the Kaya health district in Burkina Faso based on two data collection exercises conducted between December 2012 and May 2013. A household survey of 757 mothers in their first year after delivery was processed. It was complemented with a qualitative analysis using in-depth interviews with key informants, focus group discussions with mothers, and participant observation.

RESULTS

Postpartum services showed serious weaknesses. Overall, 52% (n=384) of mothers did not receive any maternal postpartum care; however among them, 47% (n= 349) received infant postpartum care.

CONCLUSION

We suggest the integration of maternal postpartum care in RMNCH services as a key step to improving postpartum care. The intervention would require the overcoming of challenges related to the quality and cost of services, and to reaching the poor populations with low education and a high parity.

Can a community health worker administered postnatal checklist increase health-seeking behaviors and knowledge?: evidence from a randomized trial with a private maternity facility in Kiambu County, Kenya

BACKGROUND

Since the 2009 WHO and UNICEF recommendation that women receive home-based postnatal care within the first three days after birth, a growing number of low-income countries have explored integrating postnatal home visit interventions into their maternal and newborn health strategies. This randomized trial evaluates a pilot program in which community health workers (CHWs) visit or call new mothers three days after delivery in peri-urban Kiambu County, Kenya.

METHODS

Participants were individually randomized to one of three groups: 1) early postnatal care three days after delivery provided in-person with a CHW using a simple checklist, 2) care provided by phone with a CHW using the same checklist, or 3) a standard of care group. Surveys were conducted ten days and nine weeks postnatal to measure outcomes related to compliance with referrals, self-reported health problems for mother and baby, care-seeking behaviors, and postnatal knowledge and practices around the recognition of danger signs, feeding, nutrition, infant care and family planning.

RESULTS

The home visit administration of the checklist increased the likelihood that women recognized postnatal problems for themselves and their babies and increased the likelihood that they sought care to address those problems identified for the child. In both the home visit and mobile phone implementation of the checklist, actions taken for postnatal problems happened earlier, particularly for infants. Knowledge was found to be high across all groups, with limited evidence that the checklist impacted knowledge and postnatal practices around the recognition of danger signs, feeding, nutrition, infant care and family planning.

CONCLUSION

We find evidence that CHW-administered postnatal checklists can lead to better recognition of postnatal problems and more timely care-seeking. Furthermore, our results suggest that CHWs can affordably deliver many of the benefits of postnatal checklists.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02104635 ; registered April 2, 2014.