Predictors of Maternal Health As Perceived By Pregnant Women In Eti-Osa, Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was an attempt to examine predictors of maternal health as perceived by pregnant women in Eti-Osa LGA of Lagos State. The study adopted the survey design. The Maternal Health Scale (MHS), a self designed scale consisting of 25 items was administered to 100 pregnant women in three selected hospitals. Three hypotheses were formulated for the study and they were all sustained. Cultural practices was the most potent predictor of maternal health (? = 0.09; t = 5.220; p<0.05). Consequent upon these findings, there is need for education and enlightenment campaigns focused on maternal health in primary health care centres (PHC) by government and other non-governmental groups. There is also the urgent necessity to provide women with the appropriate health education to enable them make informed decisions concerning their health and that of their children.

Keywords: Predictors, Maternal health, Cultural practices, Education, Pregnant Women