FACTORS INFLUENCING THE PREVENTION OF MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION OF HIV SERVICE UTILIZATION AMONG ANTENATAL WOMEN IN NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL, NNEWI

Background: Mother-to-child transmission of HIV remains a significant cause of pediatric HIV infections in Nigeria despite the availability of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) interventions. This study assessed factors influencing PMTCT service utilization among antenatal women receiving care at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at NAUTH, selected using a systematic sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of PMTCT, and utilization of PMTCT services, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests at a 0.05 level of significance. Results: The study showed that most respondents were aged 21–40 years, were married, and had at least a secondary education. Cross-tabulation indicated significant associations between educational status, age, marital status, number of children, and antiretroviral drug uptake for PMTCT (p < 0.05), with women who had higher education and who were married more likely to utilize PMTCT services. Despite general awareness of HIV and PMTCT services, ARV uptake was suboptimal, as a considerable proportion of women across all educational categories reported not taking antiretroviral drugs in pregnancy. Conclusion: PMTCT service utilization among antenatal women at NAUTH, Nnewi, is influenced by socio-demographic factors, particularly education, age, marital status, and parity, and remains below optimal levels. Strengthening targeted health education, male partner involvement, and strategies that address socio-demographic barriers could improve ARV uptake and contribute to the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in this setting.