Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of mothers regarding post-abortion care at Mbale regional referral hospital, Uganda
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Date
2026
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Busitema University
Abstract
Background: Post-abortion care (PAC) is an essential intervention for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality associated with unsafe abortion. Despite the availability of PAC services in Eastern Uganda, utilization remains suboptimal, partly due to knowledge gaps, negative attitudes, and unfavorable perceptions towards these services. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and factors influencing perceptions regarding post-abortion care among mothers attending Mbale Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), Uganda.
Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 287 mothers attending Mbale Regional Referral Hospital. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using Stata version 16. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the characteristics of respondents and levels of knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with women's perceptions regarding post-abortion care services. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals were reported, and statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05.
Results: Of the 287 respondents, 78.1% demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding post-abortion care services, while 70.7% had positive attitudes towards post-abortion care services. However, only 19.5% exhibited positive perceptions regarding the accessibility, quality, and acceptability of post-abortion care services. During multivariate analysis, place of residence was identified as the only independent predictor of perception. Women residing in peri-urban areas had significantly lower odds of having positive perceptions compared to women residing in urban areas (AOR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.16–0.82, p = 0.014).
Conclusion: Although mothers demonstrated relatively high levels of knowledge and positive attitudes towards post-abortion care services, unfavorable perceptions regarding accessibility, quality, and acceptability remained prevalent. Strengthening counseling services, improving privacy and confidentiality, and addressing geographical and health-system barriers may improve women's perceptions and enhance utilization of post-abortion care services in Eastern Uganda.
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Ibanda, E. F. (2026). Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of mothers regarding post-abortion care at Mbale regional referral hospital, Uganda [Undergraduate, research report]. Busitema University.