Barriers to Utilization of Postnatal Care: A Qualitative Study in Guinea

Maternal mortality remains very high in developing countries. In Guinea, it is 550 maternal deaths in 100.000 living birth. More than half of these deaths occur in the postpartum period. Hence the interests to have a better understanding of the factors that hinder the realization of post-natal care (PNC) arise. It is for this reason that the objective of this study is to identify barriers to the use of post-natal care in Guinea. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in the prefectures of Kindia and Dubréka, in the Administrative Region of Kindia (Guinea) in April and May 2014. Fourteen focus group discussions of women and girls of the community, as well as fifteen individual in-depth interviews (9 with women and 6 with healthcare providers). Results: Most women do their PNC during their child vaccination or in case of postpartum complications. Financial constraints are the main barrier to using postnatal care identified by participants. In general, distance from the health center associated with lack of transport mean and insufficient staffs are factors related to the health system. In addition, poor reception of clients, women’s experience during childbirth, poor programming for PNC as well as the lack of trust and confidentiality between clients and health care providers are the barriers related to health providers. The participants also mentioned the lack of sensitization and information as well as cultural constraints as barriers to using post-natal care. Conclusion: The removal of these barriers in the use of PNC will significantly reduce maternal and neonatal mortality in Guinea.