Factors Influencing and Hindering Prenatal Supplement Intake among Women in Northern Ghana

Abstract

Background and Objective: There is widespread awareness of the benefits of prenatal supplements in developing countries. Despite the fact that the government of Ghana provides free prenatal supplements (iron-folic acid) to all pregnant women, the rate of compliance with these supplements is low in the northern regions of Ghana. Little is however known about the reasons for the noncompliance. This study aimed to investigate through mixed methods the barriers and motivators for taking the supplement among mothers who attend health facilities located in northern region of Ghana. Materials and Methods: As we expected breastfeeding mothers to show a comprehensive experience of pregnancy cycle, we investigated through mixed methods the barriers and motivators for prenatal supplements uptake among mother with children aged 0-23 months. Results: Five common themes were identified: (a) Family support, (b) Knowledge of supplement benefits, (c) Social network support, (d) Health care providers’ communication/reinforcement and (e) Different views on benefits of prenatal supplements. Key motivators were family support, social network support, knowledge of supplement benefits and reinforcement by health care providers. Common barriers were adverse effects, inadequate knowledge of supplements and disrespectful communication from medical staff. The factors that motivate and hinder the intake of IFA supplements are complex. Health care professionals can increase adherence by improving communication with patients about the benefits of taking IFA supplements as well as the risk of not taking them. Conclusion: In the northern region of Ghana, pregnant women don’t take iron-folic acid supplements on a regular basis as prescribed by doctors.