Exploring the Factors Affecting Antenatal Care Communication in Selected Healthcare Facilities in Kogi State, Nigeria

This study examined the factors affecting antenatal care communication in selected primary healthcare facilities in Kogi State, Nigeria. Although previous studies in Nigeria have focused largely on antenatal care utilization and maternal health outcomes, limited attention has been given to communication processes within antenatal settings. Guided by the Social Cognitive Theory, the study adopted a mixed-method design involving questionnaire administration among pregnant women, alongside focus group discussions and key informant interviews with healthcare providers and community stakeholders. The findings revealed that interpersonal and group-based communication approaches, particularly health talks and one-on-one interactions with healthcare providers, were the dominant channels for antenatal communication. These approaches were perceived as effective because healthcare providers frequently used local languages, simplified explanations, and culturally familiar communication styles. The study further found that educational level, distance to healthcare facilities, age, and employment status significantly influenced antenatal communication access and regular antenatal attendance. Illiteracy, language barriers, poor communication styles, and the influence of husbands and traditional birth attendants also shaped women’s engagement with antenatal messages. The findings support the assumptions of the Social Cognitive Theory by demonstrating that antenatal communication is influenced by the interaction of personal characteristics, social relationships, and environmental conditions. The study contributes empirical evidence on maternal health communication in primary healthcare settings and highlights the need for culturally responsive and community-based communication strategies to improve maternal healthcare outcomes in similar contexts.