Regional disparities and socio-demographic factors associated with eight or more antenatal care visits in Ghana

A significant proportion of women in Ghana fall short of the recommended eight or more antenatal care visits. Age, parity, desired pregnancy timing, wealth status, and region of residence are associated with the number of antenatal care visits. Women in five regions (Bono, Northern, North East, Savannah, and Western North) are significantly less likely to have eight or more antenatal care visits than those in the Western region. The government and policymakers should design programs to address the needs of older women, those with high parity, and women who want to delay pregnancy. Increased healthcare resources, educational campaigns, and addressing regional barriers to antenatal care access are crucial. Promoting public health initiatives to emphasise the importance of completing the recommended number of antenatal care visits for a healthy pregnancy is essential.