2nd Edition of Public Health World Conference (PHWC) 2026

Abstract

Background: The utilization of maternal health services in Sub-Saharan Africa is irregular, mainly orchestrated by psychosocial and economic considerations. International covenants to minimize maternal deaths not withstanding, ameliorated uptake of antenatal, skilled childbirth, and postnatal management is still work in progress.

Objective: This study consolidates the latest findings, 2020- 2026 on the psychosocial and economic dimensions shaping uptake of maternal health services in Sub-Saharan Africa and explores implications for proliferated utilization.

Methods: An account of consolidated peer-review studies and systematic reviews was carried out, emphasizing on the determinants of maternal health service use covering varied sub-Saharan settings.

Results: Psychosocial characteristics such as maternal literacy, gender norms, family and community support significantly influence uptake.  Economic dimensions including household wealth, employment stability, and cost of care remain critical encumbrances, with countryside women unevenly excluded. Evidence demonstrates enhancing uptake by combined strategies, integrating subsidies, community health worker engagement, spousal involvement, and culturally responsive outreaches.

Conclusion: Utilization of maternal health services in sub-Saharan Africa should be viewed exclusively from the medical standpoint but rather psychosocial and economic perspectives. Managing inequalities in literacy, wealth, and gender norms, while reinforcing community support and reducing financial barriers, is essential for proliferated uptake. Equity focused policies and integrated service delivery models can accelerate progress toward maternal health targets.