Authors : Martin Sililo; Salome Simulyampondo; Eurody Kamwendo; Oliver Phiri

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 1 - January

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yscw4pny

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4rke5jht

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jan789

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Postnatal care (PNC) is important for the mother and newborn’s health, yet access to rehabilitative care still remains challenge in low-resource settings. The study assessed factors affecting access to and availability of rehabilitative services for postnatal mothers at Mtendere Health Centre and Chawama Level 1 Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia.  Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional mixed-methods design was used, combining quantitative data from 96 purposively sampled mothers (with infants under 6 weeks). Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with some healthcare providers. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, while qualitative data were analyzed using NVivo.  Results: The findings showed that 78.0% of participants utilized PNC services, while 22.0% did not. 58.3% of the respondents were aware of PNC, only 37.5% could accurately define it, with many associating it only with immunization and family planning. The most frequently mentioned barriers to utilization were negative attitudes of healthcare workers (39.2%), lack of knowledge (25%), long distances or lack of resources (16.7%). Emotional distress following childbirth was reported by 65.6%, though just lasting less than a week. Key socio-demographic factors such as age (p = 0.011), parity (p = 0.028), employment status (p = 0.037), marital status (p < 0.001), and education level (p < 0.001) significantly influenced PNC utilization. Maternal mental health outcomes were also significantly linked to parity (p = 0.018).  Recommendation:  Conclusion: Improving postnatal rehabilitative services in Zambia requires education, system strengthening, and policy alignment to close service gaps and strengthen maternal outcomes.  Dedication This dissertation is lovingly dedicated to my wife Salome and my Son Seth. To my supervisor, Mr. Kelly Mwayengo who continuously supported, showed great patience, and ensuring that this research is a success. Their encouragement has been an inspiration.

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