Barriers and Enablers of Antenatal Care Utilization during Crisis Situations
Authors: Kumar.S, Sharma .D, Kumar. D, Bala. A
DOI: 10.87349/ahuri/181038
Page No: 103-110
Abstract
Antenatal care (ANC) is a critical intervention for improving maternal and newborn health outcomes. However, during crisis situations such as pandemics, access to routine maternal health services is often disrupted, particularly in low- and middleincome countries (LMICs). This study explored barriers and enablers of ANC utilization during the COVID-19 crisis in Jhajjar district, Haryana, India. A qualitative study was conducted using six in-depth interviews and one focus group discussion with pregnant or recently delivered women and frontline health providers. Data were collected using semi-structured guides and analyzed thematically using NVivo software, with Microsoft Excel used for data organization. Findings revealed that transport and mobility restrictions, fear of infection, reduced facility functioning, and workforce constraints significantly hindered ANC utilization. Enablers included sustained engagement by community health workers, availability of government ambulance services, institutional trust, and adaptive service delivery mechanisms such as telephonic follow-ups. The study highlights the need for crisis-responsive maternal health systems that protect continuity of care. Strengthening community linkages, ensuring protected mobility, and embedding maternal health services within emergency preparedness frameworks are essential for improving resilience in LMIC contexts.
