Assessing Spatial Variations and Associated Factors of Postnatal Newborn Care Within the First Two Days of The Postpartum Period in Ethiopia Using 2019 Mini Demographic and Health Survey: Geographically Weighted Regression and Multilevel Analysis

Abstract

Girum Shibeshi Argaw, Fnatu Mamo Aragaw, Amensisa Hailu Tesfaye, Tsion Mulat Tebeje, Tigabu Kidie Tesfie, Negalign Byadge Gelaw, Yazachew Moges Chekol, Wullo Sisay Seretew, Wubarg Seifu Jembere and Tilahun Yemanu Birhan

Background Worldwide, many newborns die in the first month of life, with most deaths happening in low- or middle-income countries. Ethiopia continues to have one of the highest neonatal mortality rates in the world, it accounts for about half of the under-five mortality. Over 70% of deaths have been prevented if appropriate, essential newborn care had been provided, particularly the first two days of postnatal checkups. The study aimed to determine the spatial distribution and possible determinants of postnatal newborn care within two days of the postpartum period in Ethiopia.

Methods Ethiopia Mini Demographic and Health Survey (EMDHS) 2019 was utilized, and a total weighted sample of 2,105 women aged 15–49 who gave birth in the two years preceding the survey were included. ArcGIS version 10.7 and SaTScan version 9.6 software were used. Multilevel Mixed effect analysis was done by STATA version 14 software. Bivariate analysis was done and variables with a p value<0.2 were issued for multilevel multivariable logistic regression.

Result The overall prevalence of postnatal newborn care was 39.6% and the spatial distribution of newborn care was not random. Institutional delivery (AOR; 14.82 (10.07, 21.79) first ANC checkup within the first trimester (AOR 1.42(1.02, 1.96)). Maternal media exposure (AOR; 2.9(1.99, 4.23), ANC visit four & above (AOR; 2.02(1.06, 3.88)) were variables significantly associated with newborn care.

Conclusion This study revealed the low practice of postnatal newborn care practice in Ethiopia. Media exposure, having four or more ANC visits, and institutional delivery and timing of the first ANC visit in the first trimester were positively associated with the practice of postnatal checkups of the newborn. Therefore, health education programs regarding the value of ANC visits and institutional delivery should be performed, which have a critical role in inspiring mothers to take their newborns for postnatal checkups after birth.

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