Utilization of Maternal Health Services From Birthing Centers in Rural Municipalities of Kaski Nepal

Background Maternal health remains a critical public health priority in low- and middle-income countries, where maternal mortality rates continue to be disproportionately high. In Nepal, birthing centers serve as crucial facilities to improve maternal health/ birth outcomes through the provision of antenatal care (ANC), institutional delivery services, and postnatal care (PNC). This study aims to assess the utilization of maternal health services from birthing centers in rural municipalities of Kaski, Nepal. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between September and October 2023 across three rural municipalities (Rupa, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna) of Kaski district, Nepal. Using a multistage sampling method, 200 women who had given birth within the previous year prior to the data collection were selected for structured interviews. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS statistics 22, employing descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results Most of the participants (89.9%) attended four or more ANC visits; with 84.4% accessing these services at birthing centers. While institutional deliveries were high (97.5%), only 25% of women delivered at birthing centers. PNC utilization reached 84.5%. Complete utilization of all three services (at least one ANC, delivery at birthing center, and at least one PNC) from birthing centers was observed only among 22.5% of participants. Multivariate analysis identified husband's education status, household wealth status, media exposure, and duration of post-delivery stayed at health facility as significant predictors of service utilization. Primary barriers to utilization included insufficient diagnostic facilities, limited infrastructure, and preference for higher-level healthcare facilities. Conclusion Progress has been made in maternal health service utilization in rural Kaski, while significant gaps persist in the complete utilization of services at birthing centers. Addressing infrastructure limitations, enhancing service quality, and increasing community awareness are essential to improving maternal health outcomes and achieving Sustainable Development Goal targets in Nepal.