Enhancing Maternal Healthcare Access Among Tribal Women In Wayanad, Kerala

This research investigates the use of maternal health care services among tribal women in Wayanad, Kerala. The study analyzes a sample of 200 tribal women aged 15-49 years, exploring their demographic characteristics, utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services, access to Skilled Birth Attendants (SBAs), institutional deliveries, and utilization of Postnatal Care (PNC) services. The findings indicate that 75% of tribal women attended at least one ANC visit, but faced barriers such as lack of awareness and geographical distance. Additionally, 60% of deliveries were assisted by SBAs, with only 50% occurring in health facilities. Challenges in PNC utilization included limited awareness and availability of services. Educational attainment and wealth status were identified as significant factors influencing service utilization. These results emphasize the importance of targeted interventions to improve access to and utilization of maternal health care services among tribal women in Wayanad, addressing socio-economic disparities and cultural barriers to enhance maternal health outcomes in the region.