Knowledge, Perception, and Utilisation of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission Services among Women Living with HIV in Selected Health Facilities in Ogun State, Nigeria: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background Nigeria bears one of the heaviest burdens of mother-to-child HIV transmission globally, accounting for approximately 25% of paediatric infections worldwide despite decades of programmatic investment. Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) services represent the primary clinical and public health strategy for eliminating vertical HIV transmission, yet uptake and consistent engagement in care remain persistently suboptimal in many Nigerian states. This study investigated knowledge, risk perception, and service utilisation among women living with HIV attending PMTCT clinics in Ogun State. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 236 women living with HIV purposively recruited from PMTCT clinics in three Local Government Areas of Ogun State: Ijebu (n = 108), Isara (n = 80), and Ifo (n = 48). Data were collected using a validated, adapted structured questionnaire assessing five domains: PMTCT knowledge, MTCT risk perception, engagement factors, adherence challenges, and service utilisation. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Spearman rank-order correlations, and Kruskal-Wallis H tests. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05. Results The majority of respondents (58.5%) demonstrated poor PMTCT knowledge, with a mean score of 16.4 out of a possible 36. An overwhelming 84.7% held negative or inaccurate perceptions of MTCT risk factors, with a mean perception score of 41.6 out of 75. Although 95.3% of respondents reported some level of service utilisation, only 47.5% achieved full utilisation, characterised by consistent follow-up and completion of all infant-focused services. Socio-demographic variables and knowledge level did not significantly predict service utilisation. Women’s perception of MTCT risk factors was the only variable significantly and positively correlated with PMTCT service utilisation (Spearman’s rs = 0.209, p = 0.001). Conclusions Significant deficits in PMTCT knowledge and widespread misconceptions about MTCT risk factors coexist with incomplete service utilisation in this population. A theory-driven, multi-component educational intervention is urgently needed. Trial registration Not applicable. This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey and did not involve a healthcare intervention trial.