Institutional Delivery Service Utilization and Its Association in Gambella Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Home delivery is common in sub Saharan states including Ethiopia leading to cause morbidity and mortality

of maternal and child health. This study aims to determine factors affecting utilization of institutional

delivery among mothers of under two-year-old children in Gambella regional state, Ethiopia. Methods: A

cross sectional study which approach 404 mothers of under two years old children by using multistage and

purposive sampling technique. Data was collected by self-administer questionaire to examine the prevalence

of institutional delivery and factors affecting. Descriptive statistic and Pearson’s Chi-square were performed

to describe and determine the associations. Results: The study shows that 69.3% of respondent’s delivery

in the health facility, whereas, 26.7% delivery at home and those deliveries on the road and ambulance was

4%. This study disclosed that most of respondents had low level of knowledge on pregnancy complications

(65.6%). Education of the mother, ethnicity, attitude, transport accessibility, availability of maternal source

of health information, availability of female skilled birth personnel, Antenatal Care visit, and accessibility to

24 hours’ service were significantly associated to institutional delivery. Conclusion: Institutional delivery is

affected by many factors. The government and health professionals should promote education regarding the

danger signs of pregnancy, pregnancy complications, and benefits of institutional delivery.