Coverage and Determinants of Infant Postnatal Care in Nigeria: a Population-based Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background: In 2019, Nigeria had the most under-5 child deaths globally, many of which occurred within the neonatal period, especially in the first week after birth. Despite the effectiveness of infant postnatal care (PNC) attendance recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), this problem persists. Therefore, the study examined coverage and determinants of infant PNC attendance in Nigeria. Methods: Nigeria Demographic Health Survey (NDHS) 2018 data were used to evaluate infant PNC coverage and determinants. Infant PNC was defined as receipt of care within two days of birth. Children delivered up to two years before the 2018 NDHS were included. We examined predictors of infant PNC with Poisson regression models to estimate relative risks (RR). Results: The national coverage of infant PNC was 37.3% (95% CI: 35.8%–38.7%). Significant heterogeneity in PNC attendance exists at state and regional levels. Facility delivery was strongly associated with uptake of PNC (RR: 6.07; 95% CI: 5.60–6.58). Greater maternal education, maternal employment, urban residence, female head of household, and greater wealth were also associated with increased likelihood of PNC visits. Conclusions: Uptake of infant PNC in Nigeria is low. Interventions are urgently needed to promote equity in access and increase demand.