Social and Behavioural Factors Influencing Postnatal Care Service Utilisation Among Women in Tanzania from a Sociological Lens

Background Postnatal care (PNC) is a vital component of maternal and neonatal healthcare, significantly contributing to the reduction of preventable morbidity and mortality. Despite global and national policy efforts, the utilisation of PNC services remains suboptimal in Tanzania. This study investigates the socio-economic, cultural, and structural determinants associated with PNC service uptake among Tanzanian women, using Health Belief model as well as social action theory as theoretical framework. Methods A quantitative research design was employed, utilising secondary data from the 2015–2016 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey and Malaria Indicator Survey (TDHS-MIS). The sample comprised 6,994 women aged 15–49 who had given birth in the five years preceding the survey. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted using STATA software, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results The findings revealed that only 39.9% of women accessed PNC services within two days post-delivery. Significant associations were found between PNC utilisation and higher levels of education, wealth status, decision-making autonomy, exposure to maternal health information, and geographic accessibility (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that women with secondary or higher education and those from wealthier households were significantly more likely to utilise PNC services. Additionally, exposure to media and health decision-making autonomy were strong predictors of service uptake. Conversely, rural residence and poor accessibility to healthcare facilities were major barriers. Conclusions The study concludes that PNC service utilisation in Tanzania is hindered by intertwined socio-economic, cultural, and structural barriers. Interventions aimed at improving maternal health outcomes should focus on enhancing educational opportunities, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, expanding health insurance coverage, and promoting behavioural change through community engagement and media campaigns. These findings offer crucial insights for policymakers and healthcare stakeholders committed to improving maternal and child health in Tanzania.