Perceived barriers to utilization of maternal health services in rural Cambodia.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to identify the underlying causes of Cambodian women's non-use of maternal health services provided by skilled birth attendants.

METHOD

A qualitative study of 66 reproductive-age women was conducted in Kampong Cham Province, Cambodia. Data were collected through 30 semi-structured interviews and 6 focus groups.

RESULTS

We identified 5 barriers to the utilization of maternal health services: (i) financial barriers; (ii) physical barriers; (iii) cognitive barriers; (iv) organizational barriers; and (v) psychological and socio-cultural barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

The Cambodian Ministry of Health and its development partners should take these barriers into account when promoting the use of maternal health services. These barriers should be addressed proactively. A successful approach to increasing use of maternal health services should involve changes to both service programs and public education.