BIRTH SPACING AND MATERNAL- CHILD HEALTH OUTCOMES IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

Author

Aiworiaboakuelu Christopher .E. ,Akhimien Joseph .O., Oboh Isaac O.

Abstract

 Birth spacing is a critical factor influencing maternal and child health outcomes, particularly in developing countries. This study examines the relationship between birth spacing and maternal-child health in Edo State through a review of existing literature. The study adopts a systematic review approach, drawing data from reputable databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, and African Journals Online. Relevant studies published between 2000 and 2025 were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Findings from the review indicate that short birth intervals are associated with increased risks of maternal complications such as anemia, postpartum hemorrhage, and maternal mortality. Similarly, adverse child health outcomes, including low birth weight, preterm delivery, neonatal mortality, and poor nutritional status, were found to be prevalent among closely spaced births. The review also highlights the influence of socio-cultural, economic and institutional factors on birth spacing practices in Nigeria. The study concludes that optimal birth spacing remains a vital yet underutilized strategy for improving maternal and child health outcomes. It recommends increased awareness, improved access to family planning services, and policy interventions tailored to local contexts. The findings provide valuable insights for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and researchers seeking to enhance reproductive health outcomes in Edo State and similar settings.

Keywords

Birth spacing; Maternal health; Child health; Family planning; Reproductive health; Neonatal mortality; Nigeria.

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