Pregnant Teenagers’ Perception And Access To Focused Ante Natal Care Services in a Ghanaian Government Hospital

Abstract

This study was aimed at assessing the perception of pregnant teenagers of focused ante natal care (FANC) and their challenges in accessing care in Suntreso government hospital, Kumasi, Ghana. A cross sectional descriptive survey design was utilized whereby a purposive sampling technique was used to recruit 50 pregnant teenagers who met the inclusion criteria. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was employed to obtain information from the study participants after obtaining due consents. Obtained data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Majority ended at the junior high school level 30(60%); 44(88%) not married; majority 40(80%) started attending FANC in their first trimester; 24(48%) were students; 22(44%) earned 6-10 Ghc a day and 20(40%) of them were responsible for their healthcare. Distance 18(36%) and finance 18(36%) influenced their decision to attend FANC. On the whole, only 22(44%) had good perception of interpersonal care, 18(36%) of staff efficiency, 25(50%) of comfort with care, 34(68%) of information they received, and 21(42%) of service environment. Those with strong family support, married and with higher income had good perception of ANC services. Stressful service environment 46(92%) and dissatisfaction with services rendered rated very high 30(60%) among the challenges faced by pregnant teenagers in accessing FANC services. Short waiting time 50(100%), availability of staff 50(100%) and good healthcare providers’ attitude 40(80%) were rated highest among the respondents’ opinion on measures to improve access to ANC services. The study recommended a user friendly healthcare environment through the provision of a separate space for pregnant teenagers and re-training of care providers with emphasis on care of teenagers among others.