CULTURAL BELIEFS, MISCONCEPTIONS, AND MATERNAL HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIOUR: A STUDY OF RHESUS FACTOR INCOMPATIBILITY IN THE MAKOKO COMMUNITY, LAGOS, NIGERIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1009-5051Keywords:
Rhesus factor incompatibility, Cultural awareness, Mental health behaviourAbstract
Rhesus (Rh) factor incompatibility is a preventable cause of adverse outcomes for mothers and newborns. In marginalized urban communities, socio-cultural factors shape awareness and health behaviors. This study examined cultural beliefs and knowledge about Rh incompatibility and their impact on maternal health in Makoko, Lagos, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 200 women of reproductive age (18-49 years) was conducted. Data collection was through questionnaires, analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics (SPSS v25). Awareness of Rh incompatibility was limited, with only 40% knowing about the Rh factor. Cultural and religious beliefs strongly influenced perceptions of pregnancy complications, often attributing them to spiritual or traditional causes (Mean = 2.88). Maternal health practices were suboptimal: 33.5% regularly attended antenatal care, 66% had never checked their Rh status, and 37% used traditional birth attendants. There was a moderate positive correlation between awareness and health-seeking behavior (r=0.46, p<0.05), and cultural beliefs significantly predicted maternal health practices (β=0.52, p<0.05). A significant knowledge gap exists regarding Rh incompatibility in Makoko, further reinforced by cultural beliefs that hinder acceptance of biomedical care. To improve awareness, antenatal attendance, and Rh screening, community-based, culturally sensitive health education is essential.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Joy Abiola Onipede, Rosheed Abioye Seidu, Ismaheel Adewale Liadi, Abayomi Taiwo Ogunleye, Oluwabukola Samuel Oyeyinka, Olawole Kehinde Ajisafe
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