Determinants of antenatal care utilization in Lao PDR

Abstract

The healthy state of mother and child is very important and if well-addressed may result in a greater potential in terms of human capital as well as in the labor force. This can further positively affect productivity and the economic growth rate. The purpose of this research is to study the factors influencing its optimal attendance, and to assess how these factors differ between regions. To achieve these objectives, secondary data were obtained from the Lao Social Indicator Survey (LSIS) conducted during 2011-2012 at both the national and regional levels. The logistic regression model was employed for analysis. The results revealed that maternal education level, the wealth of households (middle, rich, richest), mass media exposure (watched TV every day and listen to the radio less than once a week), and maternal residence were positively associated to probability of attending ANC services at least four times. Furthermore, maternal ethnicity (Khmu and Hmong), maternal religion (animist), marital status (separated) and women who reside in a southern region made it less and had lower probability of attendance in Lao PDR. The study recommends that the Lao government should encourage education among women, particularly beyond primary school level, and the enhancement of awareness among illiterate women about the benefits of using maternal health care services.