Knowledge and Utilization of Insecticides Treated Nets among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at Oluku Primary Health Centre, Benin City, Edo State

This study investigated the knowledge and utilization of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Oluku Primary Health Centre, Benin City, Edo State. The research aimed to assess the level of knowledge, proportion of ITN use, and frequency and pattern of ITN utilization. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, with a sample size of 235 pregnant women selected using systematic sampling from a population of 600 antenatal attendees. Data were collected via a researcher-developed questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and means). Findings revealed that 100% of respondents were aware of ITNs, with 98% owning a mosquito net, primarily long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (94%). All respondents (100%) recognized ITNs’ role in malaria prevention, with health personnel being the primary information source (98%). Utilization was high, with 96% sleeping under ITNs every night, though maintenance practices varied, as 92.2% washed nets weekly, contrary to recommended standards. The independent variable was ITN knowledge, while the dependent variables were ITN ownership and usage. The study recommends intensified free ITN distribution, enhanced health education on proper ITN maintenance, and increased public awareness campaigns to sustain high utilization rates and improve malaria prevention among pregnant women.