Reasons For Preference Of Delivery In Spiritual Church-Based Clinics Bywomen Of South-south Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the various reasons for patronizing the spiritual church-based clinics by women from South-South Nigeria. Design: Forty seven spiritual church-based clinics were studied between 1st February 2003 and 31st July 2003.
Setting: Forty seven spiritual church-based clinics in both Akwa Ibom and Cross River State in South- South Nigeria. Patients: Two thousand and sixty three pregnant women who were regular attendants of the spiritual church-based clinics. Results: Various reasons for preferring church delivery included: Spiritual protection against satanic attacks and safe delivery in 975 (36.8%) lack of funds in 629(30.5%), harsh attitude of health workers in
249 (12.1%), convenience in 212 (10.3%), faith in God and previous delivery in church 83 (4.0%) each help and good care guaranteed in 48 (2.35). Conclusion: It is suggested that the spiritual churches with interest in obstetric care establish properly staffed and well equipped health clinics as an annex to the church.

Keywords: Preference, Church-Based Clinics

Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice Vol. 11 (2) 2008: pp. 100-103