Determinants of utilization of prevention of mother to child transmission in Busia-Uganda

James Ntozi, Makerere University
Jenapher Taaka, Dan Church Aid, Uganda
Elizabeth Kwagala, Makerere University

This paper examined the determinants of utilization of PMTCT services by HIV positive mothers in Busia, Uganda. It was based on a sample of 225 HIV positive pregnant and breast feeding women, key informants and focus group discussions. Although 87% of the women were aware of the existence of PMTCT services, only 46% reported ever use of the PMTCT services. Predictors of utilization of PMTCT services were education, religion, attitudes towards PMTCT enrollment of all HIV positive pregnant women, discussion of PMTCT with the partners or significant other, and partners’ willingness to accompany the woman to access antenatal care. Women whose partners were not willing to accompany them to access ANC had reduced odds of PMTCT enrollment. Enhancement of PMTCT enrollment should emphasize promotion of effective male involvement and partnerships in reproductive health matters and countering stigma at all levels.