HEALTH NEEDS AND HEALTH PROBLEMS OF PRENATAL WOMEN IN OVIA NORTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

This study was designed to investigate the health needs and health problems of prenatal women in Ovia Northeast Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Four (4) research questions were raised to guide the study. The descriptive crosssectional survey design was adopted, and the multistage sampling technique was used to select 60 respondents for this study. The instrument used for data collection was the researcher-designed questionnaire and was validated by the researcher’s project supervisor. The reliability of the instrument was established using the test re-test method of estimating reliability. After computation, the reliability yielded a Coefficient of 0.724. The questionnaire was distributed directly to the respondents by the researcher. After the collection and collation of the instrument, the data obtained were subjected to analysis using descriptive statistics of frequency counts, and percentage. Results from the study revealed significant gaps in health education, nutritional access, and reliable transportation for prenatal care. Notably, 73% of respondents indicated a need for prenatal health education and counseling, while 42% faced transportation issues affecting healthcare access. Health problems such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and dietary restrictions were common, with 28.4% of women experiencing specific health conditions. The findings underscore the necessity for improved healthcare services, better transportation options, increased public awareness, financial support, and enhanced nutritional programs. The study concludes that addressing these areas can significantly improve maternal and fetal health outcomes. Recommendations include government and policy interventions, community-based approaches, and educational campaigns to mitigate health problems and promote the well-being of prenatal women in Ovia North-East LGA.