Assessing the three delays for obstetric complications: a retrospective study in a tertiary health facility in Ghana

Abstract

Introduction/Aims Access to obstetric care saves lives, but the ‘three delays’ (to deciding to seek care, reaching the appropriate health facility and receiving proper care) may obstruct access. This study assessed the three delays to accessing care for women who experienced obstetric complications and factors contributing to obstructed access. Methods A descriptive retrospective cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 384 purposively selected women who had experienced obstetric complications. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire containing closed and open-ended questions. Results The three delays all contributed to obstructed access to care for the participants. Insufficient knowledge of obstetric complications, lack of autonomy and the proximity of health facilities were important factors leading to delays. Although the delay in receiving adequate treatment in the health facility was insignificant, most respondents experienced challenges accessing essential medications, such as oxytocin, antibiotics and antihypertensive drugs. Conclusions Despite strategies to mitigate delays in accessing obstetric care, the three delays and their associated factors remain challenging. A renewed commitment to interventions targeting women and their families and health facility-related factors is critical.