Authors: Lilian Otiso, Yussif Alhassan, Tom Odhong, Boniface Onyango, Nelly Muturi, Charlotte Hemingway, Lois Murray, Emily Ogwang, Linet Okoth, Mandela Oguche, Vicki Doyle, Nadia Fomuso, Miriam Taegtmeyer
This study investigated the impact of home pregnancy testing, facilitated by community health volunteers (CHVs), on antenatal care (ANC) initiation in rural Kenya. Results showed that home pregnancy testing was widely accepted, providing early pregnancy detection and promoting early ANC uptake. Women appreciated the convenience and privacy, especially adolescents, who faced stigma at health facilities. CHVs found the testing empowering and feasible within their roles, enhancing their credibility in community healthcare. Challenges included test availability, confidentiality concerns, and barriers to accessing facility-based care post-referral. Addressing these issues could strengthen ANC services and support for pregnant women in similar settings.
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Resource Topic: Antenatal Care
Resource Type: Qualitative
Year: 2024
Region: Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
Country: Kenya
Publisher May Restrict Access: No