Utilization of antenatal care services among HIV-positive pregnant mothers attending Katabi Military Hospital, Wakiso District. A cross-sectional study.

Background. Antenatal care (ANC) is a critical entry point for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV and for improving maternal and neonatal outcomes among HIV-positive pregnant women. This study assessed the utilization of antenatal care services and associated barriers among HIV-positive pregnant mothers attending Katabi Military Hospital in Wakiso District. Methodology. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 30 HIV-positive pregnant mothers attending ANC at Katabi Military Hospital. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, to assess socio-demographic characteristics and health facility-related, socio-cultural, and individual barriers to ANC utilization. Results. The majority of respondents were aged 25–34 years (50%) and had attained secondary education (46.6%). Health facility-related barriers included inadequate counseling and health education on HIV and ANC (46.7%), long waiting times, and insufficient services (46.7%). Half of the respondents (50%) reported poor attitudes from health workers. Socio-cultural barriers were prominent, with 56.7% experiencing stigma during ANC visits and 73.3% reporting fear of disclosing their HIV status as a major barrier. Decision-making regarding healthcare was largely influenced by husbands or partners (53.3%). Individual barriers included poor knowledge of recommended ANC visits, with 40% unaware of the required number, and personal perceptions, such as feeling healthy and not needing ANC (46.7%). Forgetting appointment dates was the most common time-related barrier (73.3%). Conclusion. Utilization of ANC services among HIV-positive pregnant mothers was influenced by health system inefficiencies, socio-cultural stigma, and individual knowledge gaps. These barriers collectively hinder optimal ANC attendance and PMTCT outcomes. Recommendations. Nurses should strengthen counseling, promote positive interactions, and integrate follow-up systems. Health facilities should improve accessibility and introduce appointment reminders. Communities should reduce stigma and support professional ANC attendance.