Exploring Utilization Patterns and Barriers to Maternal and Child Health Services at Anganwadi Centers in Rural Tamil Nadu

International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

© 2025 by SSRG - IJHSS Journal

Volume 12 Issue 5

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Imaya Varsha

10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V12I5P101

How to Cite?

Imaya Varsha, "Exploring Utilization Patterns and Barriers to Maternal and Child Health Services at Anganwadi Centers in Rural Tamil Nadu," SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 12,  no. 5, pp. 1-9, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V12I5P101

Abstract:

Anganwadi centers under India’s Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme are crucial for maternal and child health interventions, yet their service utilization beyond nutritional supplementation remains low. This study quantitatively examines the utilization, perceptions, and barriers of Anganwadi services among postpartum mothers in rural Tamil Nadu. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to July 2024 across nine centers, enrolling 102 postpartum mothers using purposive sampling. Structured questionnaires collected data on demographics, service use, perceived helpfulness, and obstacles. Descriptive statistics summarized utilization patterns, while chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests assessed associations. Results showed full uptake of Take-Home Ration (100%) but low engagement with postnatal visits (17.2%), immunization support (21.8%), and newborn care advice (20.7%). Newborn care advice was significantly linked with visit frequency (χ² = 5, p = .025), and perceived helpfulness decreased significantly when poor staff behavior was reported (χ² = 10.78, p = .001). Primary barriers reported were long waiting times (46%), socio-cultural restrictions (45%), and distance to centers (43%). The findings reflect common challenges related to infrastructural deficits, inconsistent delivery, and socio cultural factors that limit service effectiveness, while also indicating that consistent, respectful community-based care can foster trust despite resource constraints. This study highlights the imperative for ICDS reforms focusing not just on service coverage but on enhancing postnatal and pediatric care, tailoring centers to local needs, and promoting respectful, culturally sensitive interactions by frontline workers. Strengthening these aspects is essential for Anganwadi centers to effectively provide comprehensive maternal and child health support.

Keywords:

Anganwadi services, Maternal health, Child health, Service utilization, Barriers.

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