Factors Influencing Delay in Seeking Post-abortion Care among Women in Keffi, Nasarawa State

Abstract

Background: Unsafe abortion complications are a significant public health concern, particularly in underdeveloped countries, resulting in maternal mortality. Delays in seeking Post-abortion Care (PAC) at the clinical area leave health workers minimal options for resolving the situation.

Objective: To identify the factors that contribute to the delay in obtaining PAC among women with post-abortion complications in Keffi, Nasarawa State.

Methods: A mixed-method, prospective, cross-sectional survey was carried out at the Federal Medical Centre Keffi. A total of 60 patients were polled, and 15 of the polled patients participated in in-depth interviews. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered by questionnaires and structured interview guides, respectively.

Results: The predictors of delayed presentation were age 15-24 years (OR = 16, CI = 1.42 – 180.90, p = 0.047), a secondary level of education (OR = 38, CI = 4.15 – 347.89, p < 0.001), earning less than ₦30,000/Month (OR = 25.00, CI = 3.45 – 180.98, p = 0.001), living in rural areas (OR = 5.20, CI = 1.72 – 47.30, p < 0.001), having an abortion performed at a chemist's shop (OR = 7.564, CI = 6.70 – 10.00, p = 0.011), and use of herbs to induce abortion (OR = 1.23, CI = 1.04 – 1.45, p = 0.047).

Conclusion: The study identified younger age, low level of education, occupation, place of residence, low income, and previous history of induced abortion as factors contributing to delayed presentation for PAC. Effective counselling for the use of contraceptives among women who are not ready for pregnancy is recommended.