Pattern of utilization of ante-natal and delivery services in a semi-urban community of North-Central Nigeria.

Background: Nigeria accounts for only 2% of the world’s population, but contributes up to 10 % of the global estimates of maternal deaths. The study assesses the utilization of antenatal and delivery services by women of reproductive age in Afon community.
Methodology: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study that collected both quantitative and qualitative data using semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire and focus group discussions (FGD). Interviews were house-hold based. FGD had two homogenous groups. Data was analysed using Epi-info version 3.5.1 software package. Level of statistical significance was set at p <0.05.
Results: There was a high level of utilization of antenatal/delivery services in the community. Barriers to utilization of ANC/ delivery services include lack of money, distance from health facility, long waiting time, poor attitude of health workers and no permission from husbands. Level of education and employment status were significantly associated with utilization of ANC/ delivery services.
Conclusion: Girl- child education and women empowerment are required to improve utilization of services. Ante-natal care providers need to be trained to improve quality of care in the discharge of their duties.