Socio-cultural Factors Affecting Maternal Nutrition During Pregnancy in Awka South

Abstract

This study investigated socio-cultural factors affecting maternal nutrition during pregnancy in Awka South LGA. The specific objectives examined the current situation of pregnant women, cultural practices affecting dietary choices of pregnant women, social factors and measures to improve the maternal nutrition of pregnant women. Three theories were reviewed namely: Social constraints theory, life course theory and health belief model. Subsequently, health belief model was adopted as the theoretical framework. The mixed methods research design and mixed sampling procedure were used in this study. The study sampled 204 persons aged 15-49 years living in Awka South LGA. The quantitative data (i.e., questionnaires) were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and simple percentages while the qualitative data (interview responses) collected in the field were analyzed using the thematic method of data analysis. Two hypotheses were tested using Chi–square (x) test statistics and results were found to have positive relationships. Other findings show that majority of the respondents agree that income is a major factor that affects maternal nutrition of pregnant women in the area. A few other contributory factors are cultural practices, Distance to markets, source of support and level of education. The results indicate that while many pregnant women in Awka South consume nutritious meals, cultural beliefs and income levels greatly influence their dietary choices. Education had no significant effect, but free supplements, health talks, and food programmes helped improve maternal nutrition. Based on this findings, the study recommends nutrition education and culturally sensitive interventions to correct harmful food beliefs. It also advises economic support, free supplements, and strong community–health partnerships to improve and sustain maternal nutrition.