An Exploration of Perceived Impact of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (Wash) on Maternal Health and Implications among Women of Reproductive Age in Rural Communities of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Dorothy N. Ononokpono, University of Uyo
Nsidibe Usoro, University of Uyo
Ibukun Odejimi, University of Uyo
Emem-obong Fenson , Cardinal Ekandem Seminary, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
Itoro Umoren, University of Uyo

. Women remain one of the most vulnerable groups liable to suffer from the negative consequences of inadequate WASH. This study explores the perceived impact of WASH practices, on maternal health and implications among women of reproductive age living in rural communities of Akwa Ibom State , South-south Nigeria with the aim of gaining more insight regarding the linkage between WASH and maternal health outcomes and disease-burden. The study utilizes inductive qualitative approach; Free-list interviews and FGD for data collection and thematic analysis. Preliminary results showed that women in the study area experienced WASH inadequacies - low water supply and sanitation coverage, open defecation, give birth under unhygienic conditions. Perceived maternal health diseases associated with poor WASH include anaemia. malaria, diarrhoeal diseases and typhoid. Women in rural Nigeria are disproportionately burdened by WASH inadequacy. WASH should be considered in global and national strategies and also prioritized for maternal and newborn health.