Reasons and contributing factors for low health facility delivery in Bor, South Sudan

Introduction: South Sudan has one of the highest maternal mortality ratios globally, at 692 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023. The key contributors include infection, haemorrhage, and obstructed labour. Delivery in a health facility attended by skilled birth attendants can reduce the high maternal mortality. This study investigated the reasons for the low health facility delivery in Bor town in South Sudan.Method: Qualitative and quantitative methods were used. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed to capture socio-demographic characteristics and other relevant data. Key informant interview data were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed to extract key themes and patterns.Results: Of the 70 participants enrolled, 90% had given birth, with the majority delivering in non-health facilities (60.3%). The primary reasons for not giving birth at a health facility include the distance or transportation issues (65.8%), facility closure at the time of delivery (21%), and financial constraints (13.2%). Some of the proposed solutions for better services include food for patients, establishing more facilities near the communities, and employing more SBA.Conclusion: Despite the commitment made by the Ministry of Health and its partners to reduce maternal mortality by three-quarters in 2015, deaths of women during labour remain a significant problem. Collaboration among various stakeholders is key to addressing this trend.