Factors Influencing the PMTCT Services Uptake among HIV Positive Women Attending Antenatal and Postnatal Clinics in Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Background: Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV can occur during pregnancy, labour, delivery, or breastfeeding in the absence of preventive interventions. The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) program is a critical strategy to eliminate pediatric HIV infection. Targeting HIV-positive pregnant and postnatal women attending antenatal and postnatal clinics provides an opportunity for implementing evidence-based PMTCT interventions. This study assessed the factors influencing the PMTCT services uptake among HIV positive women attending antenatal and postnatal clinics in Adeoyo maternity teaching hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.

Material and Methods: A facility-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 84 HIV-positive pregnant and postnatal women. Respondents were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency tables and a four-point Likert rating scale.

Results: The study revealed that 76% of respondents had attended a PMTCT program prior to pregnancy, 61% initiated antenatal care (ANC) early, and 71% reported a minimum of four ANC visits. Furthermore, 85% were tested for HIV during pregnancy, 65% were aware of their partner’s HIV status, and 60% disclosed their HIV result to their partners. However, 58% indicated that their partners did not attend PMTCT services. In terms of clinical care, 87% underwent a CD4 test, of which 92% received their results. Facilitating factors influencing PMTCT uptake included community group support, pre- and post-test counseling, male partner involvement, and quality of health services. Conversely, stigma and discrimination, distance to the health facility, and illiteracy were reported as major hindrances.

Conclusion/Recommendations: The findings indicate a moderate to high level of PMTCT service uptake among the study population. However, gaps remain in male partner participation and disclosure of HIV status. To strengthen PMTCT uptake, interventions should focus on enhancing male partner involvement, supporting HIV status disclosure, and addressing barriers such as stigma, discrimination, and limited health literacy. Strengthening community-based support systems and improving service delivery quality will further contribute to the elimination of MTCT in Nigeria.