Factors Influencing Health Seeking Behaviour Among Women Of Reproductive Age

This study explored factors influencing Health Seeking Behaviour among women of reproductive age with a case of Women of Orlu Community. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to explore socio-cultural aspects of Health Seeking Behaviour among Women of reproductive age; to examine the economic aspects of Health Seeking Behaviour among Women of reproductive age and to evaluate the political factors of Health Seeking Behaviour among Women of reproductive age.  

In the methodology, the study used a mixed approach, where both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection and analysis were applied. The study used three methods in primary data collection, which were social survey, in-depth interview and focus group discussion. Purposive sampling method was used for attaining key informants for in-depth interview, whereas stratified and simple random sampling were used to obtain social survey and focus group discussion respondents. Sample size for social survey was obtained by the use of an online software (Calculator.net) for sample calculation that resulted to 73 respondents, whereby the qualitative part depended on the saturation point in gathering information. Quantitative data was analyzed by using Social Science Statistical Package (SPSS) Version 20. Findings from this study have revealed that social-cultural, economic and political aspects have influenced women Health Seeking Behaviour. Religion and wealth influenced Health Seeking Behaviour of Women of reproductive age in varied manner. In addition, delay in attainment of Health Insurance Identity Cards was seen to be a factor that led some women not to visit hospitals. 

It was recommended that women need to use the adequate biomedical healthcare facilities as well as ensure timely attainment of health insurance membership cards. Healthcare practitioners and Student Welfare Officers were encouraged to ensure women are aware and use the available healthcare services. ORLU COMMUNITY management and the government of Nigeria should play well their part by ensuring good healthcare services to women.