Utilzation of antenatal care (ANC) and prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) services in east Ekurhuleni sub-district, Gauteng Province, South Africa

Abstract

This study sought to determine if ANC and PMTCT services are utilized within the first trimester of pregnancy by the women in East Ekurhuleni sub-district. Quantitative descriptive research was conducted on 390 eligible pregnant women and data collection was done using structured questionnaires. The results indicated that women start ANC late despite their knowledge of first trimester as the best time to start ANC. Actions that would motivate them to start ANC early were explored and barriers were identified.