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Background: Malaria in pregnancy remains a huge public health problem. Studies have shown that majority of women still receive antenatal care from unorthodox centers including Traditional Birth Homes (TBH) where malaria preventive practices are suboptimal. This study assessed the use of malaria preventive methods among women attending TBHs in Ibadan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 318 women attending TBHs using mixed- methods of data collection. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire as well as through focus group discussions (FGD). Frequencies and proportions were generated for knowledge and use of Intermittent Preventive Therapy (IPTsp) and Long-Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLIN). Bivariate and multivariate analysis was done to identify determinants and predictors of IPTsp uptake/ LLIN use at p<0.05. Thematic analysis was done for qualitative data. Results: Respondents’ mean age was 27±5.5 years. Of those that had LLIN(267/318), 77.5%(207) useit and determinants of LLIN use were attending other hospitals, increasing age, being employed, and having good knowledge of LLIN. About one-fourth (125/318) were aware of IPT and only 28.2% of them had received IPTsp from TBHs. Attending other hospitals and LLIN use were associated with uptake of IPTsp (p<0.05). Knowledge of LLIN [OR: 5.3, 95%CI:1.6-16.6) and attending hospitals [OR: 7.8, 95%CI: 2.4-25.1) were independent predictors of LLIN use and IPTsp uptake, respectively. Conclusion: Use of malaria preventives in TBHs is low compared to the targets set for the control of malaria in pregnancy. Traditional birth attendants need to be trained on the importance of malaria prevention in pregnancy and be empowered to provide malaria-preventive practices.
Oyegoke Abiodun Adedeji (Wed,) studied this question.