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Factors Influencing EMTCT Service Utilization by HIV-Positive Pregnant Women at Karoli Lwanga Hospital, Rukungiri District, Western Uganda
Author: Mujurizi Francis
Publisher: IDOSR JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY
Published: 2023
Section: Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry
Abstract
This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and health-related factors affecting the
utilization of Early Mother-to-Child Transmission (EMTCT) services among HIV/AIDS
pregnant women at Karoli Lwangi Hospital in Rukungiri district. Data was collected from 97
pregnant mothers with HIV/AIDS through questionnaires. The findings revealed that most
participants had a good understanding of HIV transmission routes, particularly from
mother to child during pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding. The majority were aware that
antiretroviral therapy (ARV) could prevent mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) but
disagreed that using condoms could prevent it. The study also showed a high willingness
to separate from spouses if they tested positive for HIV and strong support for HIV-infected
mothers delivering with skilled health workers. However, a significant barrier to the
utilization of EMTCT services was the unaffordability of healthcare costs. This suggests
that despite positive attitudes and knowledge, financial constraints remain a critical
hindrance to EMTCT service utilization.