Utilization Patterns and Barriers to the Use of Insecticide-Treated Nets among Pregnant Women in Omuoko Community, Rivers State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54117/rtjemj93Keywords:
Malaria in pregnancy, Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), Utilization barriers, Pregnant women, Rural health NigeriaAbstract
Background: Malaria in pregnancy poses a significant public health threat in Nigeria, especially in rural areas with limited healthcare access. Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are a key preventive measure, yet consistent utilization among pregnant women often remains low despite ownership.
Objective: To evaluate utilization patterns and barriers to ITN use among pregnant women in Omuoko Community, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study targeted all 100 pregnant women in the community. Using Taro Yamane’s formula, a sample of 80 was selected via convenience sampling. Data were collected with a validated, self-structured five-point Likert-scale questionnaire covering socio-demographics, malaria prevention knowledge, ITN utilization, and barriers. Reliability was established at 0.80 via test-retest. Analysis used SPSS for descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations) presented in tables.
Results: Respondents were predominantly 30–35 years old (43.8%), Christian (93.8%), secondary-educated (62.5%), and married (68.8%). ITN ownership was high (72.5%), but regular nightly use was low (27.5% agreed/strongly agreed). Many reported occasional use (76.3%) or non-preventive purposes (e.g., as blankets: 51.3%). Major barriers included heat/discomfort (85%), poor ventilation (97.5%), chemical irritation (85.1%), lack of hanging space (82.6%), and large family size (75.1%). Cost was less frequently reported.
Conclusion: High ITN ownership in Omuoko Community is undermined by poor consistent utilization, driven mainly by discomfort, environmental factors, and household constraints rather than access issues. To enhance adherence and reduce malaria in pregnancy, interventions should focus on community education, promotion of climate-adapted net designs, integration with traditional birth attendant services, and regular redistribution. These steps are essential for improving ITN effectiveness and supporting Nigeria’s malaria elimination goals.
