Factors associated with early antenatal care attendance among women in Papua New Guinea: a population‐based cross‐sectional study

Abstract Background Early initiation of antenatal care (ANC) is a key component care, as suggested by the World Health Organisation (WHO). It helps in early identification and mitigation adverse pregnancy-related complications. Despite this, greater proportion women worldwide still do not adhere to this recommendation. This study, therefore, sought assess prevalence factors associated with ANC among Papua New Guinea (PNG). Methods A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted 4,274 using data from 2016–2018 PNG Demographic Survey (PDHS). The outcome variable ANC. Bivariate (chi-square) multivariable logistic regression analyses were done statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results 23.0 % (CI = 20.8–24.6). binary analysis showed that working had higher odds attendance compared those who [AOR 1.37, 95 %CI 1.17 1.60]. results also Islands region lower 0.50, 0.40–0.62] Southern region. Finally, parity 3 1[AOR 0.64,95 CI 0.49–0.84]. Conclusions found relatively low uptake PNG. residence, parity, status mothers. To increase uptake, these should be considered when designing new policies or reviewing strategies on help attendance, which can reduction maternal mortality.