Challenges of monitoring reproductive health services: a case study of antenatal clinics in Kinondoni municipality, Dar Es Salaam

Abstract

Introduction: Antenatal Care (ANC) is one of the interventions that have the potential of significantly reducing the maternal mortality rate when properly conducted.
Objectives: The purpose of this research was to assess the challenges of monitoring and evaluation of reproductive health services using ANC clinics as a case study and identify strategies for addressing the challenges.
Methods: The study was descriptive cross sectional employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. The sample population included nurse-midwives who manage ANC clinics in Kinondoni Municipality.
Results: Of the 30 respondents, 24 respondents noted the need to improve monitoring of the ANC services. Challenges noted were low information use, inadequate human resource, and lack of feedback data from higher authorities.
Conclusion: There is need to improve information flow and use, have frequent supportive supervision visits, seminars and workshops to update nursemidwife managers with knowledge and skills of monitoring and evaluation, and development of a culture of information.

Keywords: challenges, monitoring, reproductive health, antenatal care