The Influence of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness Practice on the Utilization of Maternal Services in Indonesia

Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) practice is an important WHO program that promotes and educates pregnant women and families to improve access to Skilled Birth Attendance (SBA) and health facilities during pregnancy and delivery. This study examines the influence of BPCR practice, especially delivery planning and other related factors, on the utilization of maternal services in Indonesia. Data were obtained from the 2016 National Health Indicator Survey (SIRKESNAS), a cross-sectional survey with a total sample of 6,790 women aged 10-54 years who had given birth in the past three years before the survey. The outcome variables were the utilization of SBA and delivery in health facilities, whereas the explanatory variable was delivery planning. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between delivery planning and the utilization of maternal health services. Mothers with a complete delivery plan had a significantly higher chance of using an SBA (OR = 5.05, P-value < 0.001) and a primary health facility (OR = 9.82, P-value < 0.001) during delivery than those with minimal planning. Similarly, mothers who completed antenatal care visits were more likely to use SBA (OR = 8.40, P-value < 0.001), primary health facilities (OR = 7.83, P-value < 0.001), and hospitals (OR = 7.28, P-value < 0.001). Higher education and urban residency increased the likelihood of using a health facility. BPCR, particularly delivery planning, significantly increases access to SBA and health facilities. Strengthening BPCR implementation may reduce delays in receiving timely and adequate care during childbirth.