Trends and Determinants of Health Facility Delivery Services Utilization among Mothers Giving Birth in Urban Slums of Nairobi, Kenya

Catherine Atahigwa, Mbarara University of Science and Technology
Damazo Twebaze Kadenge, African Population and Health Researh Center
Samuel Iddi, African Population and Health Researh Center
Steven Abrams, University of Antwerp
Annelies Van Rie, University of Antwerp

High maternal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa impends achieving the third Sustainable Development Goal. In Kenya, maternal mortality remains high, at 510 deaths per 1,000 live births. Utilisation of health facility delivery services ensures safe birth and is vital for maternal survival. However, socioeconomic and geographical inequalities affect access. This study examines health facility delivery trends and determinants in Nairobi's urban slums, drawing from Nairobi Urban Health and Demographic Surveillance System data (2003–2015). Generalized estimating equation analysis reveals 81% of health facility deliveries, with 19% occurring at home or outside a health facility. The results further indicated that education, parity, and relationship to the head of household significantly influenced health facility delivery. Enhancing maternal awareness during antenatal care about institutional delivery benefits and home birth risks is crucial. Health practitioners should prioritize this during follow-up visits