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International Journal of Public Health

Published in:

01-12-2016 | Original Article

Gestational age at first antenatal visit in Namibia

Authors: Nandini Thogarapalli, Paul Mkandawire, Joseph Kangmennaang, Isaac Luginaah, Godwin Arku

Published in: International Journal of Public Health | Issue 9/2016

Abstract

Objectives

To examine the relationship between pregnancy intention and gestational age at first antenatal visit in Namibia.

Methods

This study uses secondary data from the 2013 Namibia Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Log-normal survival models are used to examine the independent effect of pregnancy intention on gestational age at first antenatal visit while controlling for relevant sociodemographic and socioeconomic covariates.

Results

This study finds that those who indicated unwanted pregnancies were significantly more likely to delay initiating antenatal care (ANC). Other variables also associated with gestational age at first antenatal visit include contact with a health worker, health insurance, media exposure to safe motherhood messages, birth order, relationship with head of household, maternal education, and urban residence.

Conclusions

Timely ANC is necessary to identify and mitigate risk factors in pregnancy but many mothers in Namibia do not receive such care. Reducing unwanted pregnancies through family planning may limit ANC delays. After unwanted pregnancies occur, women may benefit from further education and resources that empower them to pursue ANC promptly.

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Title: Gestational age at first antenatal visit in Namibia
Authors: Nandini Thogarapalli
Paul Mkandawire
Joseph Kangmennaang
Isaac Luginaah
Godwin Arku
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Published in: International Journal of Public Health / Issue 9/2016
Print ISSN: 1661-8556
Electronic ISSN: 1661-8564
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-016-0885-x

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Gestational age at first antenatal visit in Namibia

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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