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Exploring the Use of Antenatal and Maternity Services by Mothers Engaged in Child Welfare Programs in Michika LGA, Adamawa State Isaac John Umaru; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Julius Ishaya Salman; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Genevieve A. Yeboah; Prince Osei Akumia; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i1.9302

Maternal health remains a critical public health concern in Nigeria, where high rates of maternal morbidity and mortality persist despite ongoing interventions. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and utilization of maternal health services among women in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria, to identify key barriers to service uptake, and to evaluate the influence of child welfare programs on antenatal care utilization. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 250 women of reproductive age using structured questionnaires. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, antenatal and maternity service utilization, barriers to access, and participation in child welfare programs, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics to generate frequencies and percentages. The findings showed that 85% of respondents were aware of antenatal services and 80% attended antenatal care during their last pregnancy; however, only 30% completed more than four visits. Skilled birth attendance was reported by 68% of respondents, whereas 16% delivered at home or with traditional birth attendants, and 60% received post-natal care. The major barriers to service utilization included distance to health facilities (60%), financial constraints (44%), lack of transportation (36%), poor attitude of health workers (28%), cultural and religious beliefs (24%), and lack of awareness (16%). In addition, women who participated in child welfare programs were 30% more likely to utilize antenatal services. These findings indicate that, despite relatively high awareness, maternal health service utilization remains suboptimal because of intersecting structural, economic, and sociocultural barriers. The study underscores the need to strengthen health infrastructure, improve transportation access, subsidize care, and expand community-based interventions, while also addressing cultural beliefs and health worker attitudes to improve maternal health outcomes in rural Nigeria.

Exploring the Use of Antenatal and Maternity Services by Mothers Engaged in Child Welfare Programs in Michika LGA, Adamawa State Isaac John Umaru; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Julius Ishaya Salman; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Genevieve A. Yeboah; Prince Osei Akumia; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i1.9302

Maternal health remains a critical public health concern in Nigeria, where high rates of maternal morbidity and mortality persist despite ongoing interventions. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and utilization of maternal health services among women in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria, to identify key barriers to service uptake, and to evaluate the influence of child welfare programs on antenatal care utilization. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 250 women of reproductive age using structured questionnaires. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, antenatal and maternity service utilization, barriers to access, and participation in child welfare programs, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics to generate frequencies and percentages. The findings showed that 85% of respondents were aware of antenatal services and 80% attended antenatal care during their last pregnancy; however, only 30% completed more than four visits. Skilled birth attendance was reported by 68% of respondents, whereas 16% delivered at home or with traditional birth attendants, and 60% received post-natal care. The major barriers to service utilization included distance to health facilities (60%), financial constraints (44%), lack of transportation (36%), poor attitude of health workers (28%), cultural and religious beliefs (24%), and lack of awareness (16%). In addition, women who participated in child welfare programs were 30% more likely to utilize antenatal services. These findings indicate that, despite relatively high awareness, maternal health service utilization remains suboptimal because of intersecting structural, economic, and sociocultural barriers. The study underscores the need to strengthen health infrastructure, improve transportation access, subsidize care, and expand community-based interventions, while also addressing cultural beliefs and health worker attitudes to improve maternal health outcomes in rural Nigeria.

The Legalization of Abortion and Its Influence on Youth Sexual Behavior and the Catholic Church: A Case Study of Adamawa State Isaac John Umaru; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Genevieve A. Yeboah; Julius Ishaya Salman; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 1 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i1.9401

Although debates on abortion reform have intensified in Nigeria, limited attention has been paid to how partial legalization shapes youth perspectives and sexual and reproductive behaviors within specific sociocultural and religious contexts. This study examines how the limited legalization of abortion influences youth attitudes and behaviors in Adamawa State, with particular attention to demographic, cultural, and institutional factors, as well as the Catholic Church’s response to these changes. A qualitative approach was employed through interviews with health workers, clergy, and youths aged 18–25 from urban and rural areas of Adamawa State. Supplementary data were obtained from community forums, church outreach programs, and health service records, and the data were analyzed thematically to identify patterns in attitudes, behaviors, and institutional responses. The findings indicate a marked urban–rural divide, with urban youths reporting higher sexual activity, greater contraceptive use, and stronger support for reproductive autonomy. The study also found that the Catholic Church’s moral campaigns have had limited influence, particularly among urban youths who perceive religious teachings as less relevant to contemporary realities. In contrast, health workers were viewed as more trusted sources of guidance, while peers and media played a substantial role in shaping youth behavior. The study concludes that the evolving legal and cultural landscape in Adamawa State reflects a broader generational shift toward autonomy and informed decision-making among youths. These findings contribute to understanding the changing relationship between legal reform, religious influence, and youth reproductive behavior, and suggest that more balanced strategies integrating moral guidance, comprehensive education, and supportive policies are needed to promote healthy youth development in a changing society.

Awareness and Perceptions of Exclusive Breastfeeding as a Method of Birth Control Among Catholic Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Rural Communities Isaac John Umaru; Hauwa A. Umaru; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Solomon O. Asare; Inemesit Samuel Essien; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Genevieve A. Yeboah; Julius Ishaya Salman; Katchin Evelyn Shadrach; Maryam Usman Ahmed
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v3i2.9402

Although exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is widely recognized for its nutritional and immunological benefits, its role as a natural contraceptive through the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) remains insufficiently understood, particularly in rural communities where cultural and religious beliefs shape reproductive decisions. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness, perceptions, and barriers to the adoption of EBF as a method of birth control among Catholic pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in rural communities, while also examining the influence of education and religious beliefs on knowledge and acceptance of LAM. A quantitative survey design was employed using a structured questionnaire administered to 165 Catholic pregnant women. The instrument covered demographic characteristics, awareness of EBF and LAM, perceptions and beliefs, and barriers to adoption. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to examine associations between variables. The findings showed that most respondents were aged 25–34 years (47.3%) and married (84.8%). Although 61.8% had heard of EBF as a birth control method, only 35.2% were familiar with the term LAM, and only 25.5% understood its three effectiveness criteria. Perceptions were mixed, with 47.9% considering EBF a reliable method and 59.4% believing that it aligns with Catholic teachings. The main barriers identified were lack of counseling (51.5%), cultural pressure (43.6%), and fear of pregnancy despite amenorrhea (36.4%). Education level was significantly associated with awareness of LAM (p = 0.03). The study concludes that, despite the perceived compatibility of natural family planning with Catholic teaching, substantial informational and practical barriers continue to limit informed adoption of EBF as a contraceptive method in rural settings. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the gap between religious acceptance and practical knowledge, and underscore the need for strengthened health education, engagement of religious leaders, and literacy-sensitive interventions to support safe and informed use of EBF for birth control.

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