Maternal health information seeking behaviors and perceptions among Ugandan pregnant women: theory-informed study

Abstract

Background: Although the maternal mortality ratio has declined in Uganda, but it remains a public health threat, constraining the achievement of maternal mortality targets. Research suggests that health information-seeking behavior is significant for understanding different maternal health outcomes. This study aimed to understand the underlying factors affecting health information-seeking behaviors among pregnant women in selected hospitals in Mukono and Kampala Districts, Uganda. Methods: Utilizing a qualitative design, 24 pregnant women aged 16-24 years who were seeking antenatal care (ANC) from Mukono, Nagalama, and Naguru Hospitals were recruited through purposive sampling. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Data analysis identified 20 codes that generated three themes: reasons for seeking information, challenges faced in seeking information, and behavioral change communication strategies. Conclusion: Findings showed pregnant women accessed information from health workers. The main barrier to receiving information was different reporting times for ANC. There is a need to develop a centralized, standardized health information repository and to provide continuous professional development to providers. Future research should examine interventions to improve health-seeking information behavior across various cultural contexts.