Exploring challenges in accessing primary healthcare for pregnant women in Pakistan: a qualitative descriptive study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Maternal and newborn mortality are critical global health concerns. Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3.8 (SDGs), which aims to improve these outcomes, is hindered by the poor quality of care in health facilities, a significant barrier to the utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services in Pakistan. This study aimed to explore the barriers to the underutilization of ANC services in Tehsil (sub-division of a district) Hazro, Punjab, Pakistan, from the perspective of pregnant women.

Method

The study employed four focus group discussions (FGDs) with 36 pregnant women who had attended at least three ANC visits. Data were collected through purposive sampling and analyzed using NVivo 12, ensuring rigor through Lincoln and Guba's guiding principles.

Result

SUBMITTER: Khan BAA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11959712 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature