Factors motivating early antenatal attendance in Lesotho

Abstract

Early antenatal care (ANC) attendance in the first trimester of pregnancy provides a unique opportunity for early identification of health concerns, prompt treatment and health education. There are several national and international research studies on the reasons for late ANC attendance. However, literature on the drivers for early ANC is limited, indicating the need for more contextualised research on factors motivating early ANC attendance. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive study was conducted to explore and describe factors motivating women to attend ANC services before 16 weeks’ gestation in a healthcare centre in Lesotho where 14 participants were purposely selected, and data collected through semi-structured interviews. Tesch’s thematic analysis protocol was used to guide the analysis process. Six themes were identified as the factors motivating early ANC attendance in Lesotho, namely, 1) confirmation of pregnancy, 2) concern for foetal wellbeing, 3) the need to optimise maternal well-being, 4) health education on early ANC attendance, 5) motivation from significant others and 6) motivation from social norms. The findings can advise the development of health education programs and interventions to strengthen the ANC service and to promote early ANC attendance.