Role of Cultural Beliefs and Practices in Shaping Maternal and Infant Healthcare-seeking Behaviour in Abia Central Senatorial District

The research project examines how traditional customs affect maternal and infant medical care utilization patterns within Abia Central Senatorial District of Nigeria. The research used qualitative methods to interview thirty women at urban and rural sites through semi-structured interviews. Traditional Birth Attendant services and home deliveries continue to dominate healthcare delivery despite cultural beliefs which place their trust in local healthcare providers throughout rural areas of Abia Central Senatorial District in Nigeria. Normal births by TBAs and home deliveries continue to play a big role despite which urban areas show an increasing shift toward modern healthcare facilities for prenatal care and institutional births. People face limitations in getting formal healthcare because of their financial problems and geographical difficulties as well as inadequate transportation system and healthcare provider negativity. Family relationships between husbands and mothers-in-law have a direct impact on medical choices made by their female family members. The research team proposes cultural competency in healthcare services together with improved infrastructure and financial support and community-based healthcare education to improve maternal healthcare behavior and results in the target area.