Antenatal care (ANC) is a critical component of maternal healthcare aimed at ensuring the well-being of both mother and fetus during pregnancy. Adequate utilization of antenatal services facilitates early detection of pregnancy-related complications, promotes healthy maternal behaviors, and improves neonatal outcomes. Despite global efforts to improve maternal healthcare, disparities in ANC utilization persist, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Objective

To assess antenatal care utilization patterns and evaluate their association with maternal and neonatal pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

A prospective multicenter observational study was conducted among 2,500 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics. Data regarding ANC attendance, maternal characteristics, obstetric history, pregnancy complications, delivery outcomes, and neonatal health indicators were collected and analyzed. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and multivariate modeling.

Results

Adequate ANC utilization (≥8 visits) was observed in 68.4% of participants. Women receiving adequate ANC demonstrated significantly lower rates of maternal complications, preterm birth, low birth weight, and neonatal intensive care unit admission. Early ANC initiation during the first trimester was independently associated with favorable pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusion

Adequate and timely antenatal care utilization significantly improves maternal and neonatal outcomes. Strengthening access to quality ANC services, promoting early registration, and addressing barriers to utilization are essential for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.