A Survey of the Perception of Women Attending Antenatal Clinics about HIV Transmission and Prevention within the Cape Coast Metropolis

Abstract

The aim of the study was to identify the barriers hindering the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV among women attending antenatal clinics in the Cape Coast Metropolis. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed for the study. The convenient sampling procedure was used to select 191 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics whiles 10 nursing managers were purposively chosen. In all, 201 participants responded to an individually administered questionnaire. It emerged from the study that out of the 201 participants, most of the participant indicated that they had adequate knowledge about the modes of transmission of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The study also revealed that most of the participants had positive attitude towards PMTCT services. Based on the findings, it was recommended that health education relating to mother to child transmission of HIV and its prevention at the antenatal clinics should be intensified. This would empower women of child bearing age to understand the importance of PMTCT, the mode of transmitting HIV to their infants and the services available. It is further recommended that curriculum for nurses and physician should emphasize issues on MTCT, PMTCT and HIV