Determinants of postnatal care use in Kenya

Abstract

Pregnancy related complications may result in maternal deaths post delivery especially in developing countries. Skilled deliveries and postnatal care (PNC) use in Kenya is low. The objective of this study was to identify the determinants of PNC use. Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (2008-09 KDHS) women’s data were analyzed. Overall data from 3,970 women were analyzed. Results indicate that 47 percent of the women received PNC services. Factors associated with PNC use are mothers’ age at delivery of the last child, 4+ ANC visits, urban residence, and skilled delivery. However, lack of education and unskilled delivery were associated with low use of PNC services (p <0.05). In conclusion, the use of PNC services is low at 47 percent although the main determinants for PNC use are amenable to intervention. Strengthening of maternal health services throughout the continuum of care and promoting the use of high quality services by pregnant women is recommended.