Influence of health decision making on maternal complications among women delivered at a general hospital, North-Western Nigeria

Background: Low status of women and lack of decision making in utilization of maternal healthcare services are important factors influencing maternal complications. Antenatal care services and delivery in a health facility under the supervision of a skilled birth attendant are important ways of mitigating maternal complications. Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the influence of responsibility of health decision-making on maternal complications. Methodology: A cross-sectional study involving 206 women who delivered between February and April 2014 at the Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial General Hospital in Kaduna, Northwestern Nigeria. Consenting participants were recruited consecutively irrespective of their booking status. Data analyzed included the sociodemographic characteristics of the women, responsibility for health decision making, and pattern of obstetric complications. Results: Majority of the participants were Hausa ethnic group Muslims with no formal education. Most (54%) were unbooked. Healthcare decisions were made by the husbands in nearly 90% of the participants. Decision-making significantly influences the occurrence of maternal complications. Conclusion: The study showed a significant relationship between health decision-making and maternal complications. Women empowerment and partner participation in decision-making should be emphasized in maternal health education.