Factors associated with non-utilization of maternal and child health services in Nigeria: results from the 2013 Nigeria demographic and health survey

Aim This study aims to examine factors associated with non-utilization of maternal and child health services in Nigeria. Methods Secondary data from the 2013 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey were utilized. A sample of 18,712 women aged 15–49 years who had had a child in the 5 years preceding the survey was selected. Variables on demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the study sample were analysed. Data analysis was carried out using STATA version 12 software. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results We found that 48.83% of women had not made at least four antenatal care (ANC) visits, 62.34% delivered at home, while 71.43% had not received postnatal care (PNC). Multivariate analysis indicated that geo-political zone, location, women’s education, religion, socio-economic status, marital status and husband’s education were significantly associated with the non-utilization of ANC services, health facilities for delivery and PNC services. Conclusion Our study concludes that maternal health-seeking behaviour is poor among women of reproductive age in Nigeria. In addition, demographic and socio-economic factors were significantly associated with the non-utilization of maternal and child health services. There is an urgent need for interventions to encourage the use of these services among women of reproductive age. Policy-makers need to design and implement policies targeted at women from the poorest households, who are less educated and living in rural areas or in the North West or South South region. This will assist in promoting change in maternal health-seeking behaviour.