<![CDATA[Background: Maternal health remains a major public health concern in many parts of Nigeria, where access to quality healthcare services is often limited. In rural and semi-urban communities such as Oyi Local Government Area in Anambra State, childbearing women face numerous challenges that affect their health and that of their newborns. Objective: This study examines the health needs and challenges of childbearing women in Oyi, with a specific focus on maternal health as a key aspect of public health. Method: A mixed-method approach was adopted, involving surveys, interviews, and healthcare data analysis to explore the cultural, socioeconomic, and healthcare access factors influencing maternal health in the area. Results: Findings reveal critical health needs, including access to prenatal and postnatal care, nutritional support, and mental health services. Pregnancy-related complications and postpartum conditions are common, often worsened by inadequate healthcare access and financial limitations. Conclusion: Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that involves community participation, supportive health policies, and improved healthcare provider training. Originality/Value: This study provides novel empirical evidence in the field of public health and maternal healthcare by identifying critical unmet needs, including prenatal and postnatal care, nutritional support, and mental health services, alongside pregnancy related complications driven by financial limitations and healthcare access barriers regarding the health needs and challenges of childbearing women in the context of rural and semiurban communities in Oyi Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria, which remain understudied. These findings enrich existing literature and serve as a strategic reference for public health policymakers, medical practitioners, and community leaders in designing affordable, community centered health policies, upgrading healthcare provider training, and strengthening local maternal health programs.]]>
