Current Journal of Applied Science and Technology

Background: Although several factors are known to influence the gestational age at booking, current knowledge indicates that the distribution of these factors could vary from one country to the other, and even within countries, the variation could exist between states. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, predictors and clinical correlates of gestational age at booking in southern Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: One hundred and fifty pregnant women who visited the study centres within the study period were evaluated for socio-demographic, clinical and biochemical characteristics associated with early and late ANC initiation using standard instruments and procedures.

Results: Fifty-six per cent (56%) of the pregnant women initiated ANC within the first thirteen weeks of gestation according to the WHO recommendation. Fewer numbers of previous pregnancies and births were significantly associated with early ANC initiation. Being of older age, (OR=1.52, C.I=1.318-1.956), fewer number of previous pregnancies (OR=2.2. C.I=1.923-2.511), low parity (OR=2.05, C.I=1.884-2.264), public servant (OR=1.52, C.I=1.316-1.753), higher educational attainment (OR=2.21, C.I=1.043-3.498) significantly increased the likelihood of early ANC initiation. Also, pregnant women who booked early had a lower incidence of anaemia, hypertension and gestational diabetes and better biochemical endpoints.

Conclusion: Some demographic variables and fewer numbers of pregnancies and births were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of early ANC initiation and vice versa. These factors should be considered in designing interventions to improve gestational age at booking among pregnant women in Nigeria and globally.