SAFE MOTHERHOOD PRACTICES AND MOTHER-CHILD SURVIVAL AMONG WOMEN OF CHILD BEARING AGE IN OKGWE, OHAFIA, ABIA STATE

This study examines safe motherhood practices and their influence on mother–child survival among women of child-bearing age in Okgwe, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Safe motherhood encompasses a range of healthcare services and behavioral practices designed to ensure that women experience pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods safely without complications that could result in death or disability. Despite global and national efforts, maternal and child mortality remain significant public health challenges in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, focusing on women aged 15–49 years. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using simple percentages. The findings revealed that although awareness of safe motherhood practices exists, utilization remains inconsistent due to factors such as poverty, limited healthcare access, cultural beliefs, and low educational levels. Antenatal care attendance was relatively common, but many women still relied on traditional birth attendants. The study concludes that improving safe motherhood practices significantly enhances mother–child survival. It recommends increased health education, improved healthcare infrastructure, community outreach programs, and government intervention to reduce maternal and child mortality rates.