Abstract:
Background: Low status of women and lack of decision making in utilization
of maternal healthcare services are important factors influencing maternal
complications. Antenatal care services and delivery in a health facility under
the supervision of a skilled birth attendant are important ways of mitigating
maternal complications. Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the
influence of responsibility of health decision‑making on maternal complications.
Methodology: A cross‑sectional study involving 206 women who delivered
between February and April 2014 at the Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial General
Hospital in Kaduna, Northwestern Nigeria. Consenting participants were recruited
consecutively irrespective of their booking status. Data analyzed included the
sociodemographic characteristics of the women, responsibility for health decision
making, and pattern of obstetric complications. Results: Majority of the participants
were Hausa ethnic group Muslims with no formal education. Most (54%) were
unbooked. Healthcare decisions were made by the husbands in nearly 90% of the
participants. Decision‑making significantly influences the occurrence of maternal
complications. Conclusion: The study showed a significant relationship between
health decision‑making and maternal complications. Women empowerment and
partner participation in decision-making should be emphasized in maternal health
education.
