Background

Antenatal care (ANC) is a critical component of maternal healthcare that contributes significantly to improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. Timely and adequate antenatal care facilitates early detection and management of pregnancy-related complications, promotes healthy behaviors, and reduces maternal and infant morbidity and mortality.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate antenatal care utilization patterns and their association with maternal and neonatal outcomes among pregnant women attending healthcare facilities.

Methods

A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted among 2,400 pregnant women receiving care at six tertiary healthcare centers. Data regarding antenatal care attendance, maternal characteristics, pregnancy complications, delivery outcomes, and neonatal health indicators were collected and analyzed using multivariate statistical methods.

Results

Women who completed at least eight antenatal visits had significantly lower rates of maternal complications, preterm birth, low birth weight, neonatal intensive care admissions, and perinatal mortality. Adequate ANC utilization was associated with a 38% reduction in adverse pregnancy outcomes compared with inadequate ANC attendance.

Conclusion

Regular and comprehensive antenatal care significantly improves pregnancy outcomes. Strengthening maternal healthcare services and promoting timely ANC attendance remain essential strategies for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.