Utilization and Determinants of Maternal and Child Health Services in Tribal Communities of Panvel, Raigad District, Maharashtra: A Community Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Maternal and child health (MCH) remains a critical indicator of National Development. Despite numerous government initiatives, tribal populations in India continue to face barriers to Health Service Utilization. This study aimed to assess the utilization patterns and determinants of MCH services in the tribal areas of Panvel, Maharashtra. Methods: A community-based descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 220 married women who were either currently pregnant or had delivered within the last three years. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square tests to identify associations between socio-demographic factors and service utilization. Results: Most women (51%) were aged 15–25 years, and 91.4% were unemployed. Early ANC registration was reported by 86.4% of participants, while 96.8% had at least three ANC visits. Coverage of Td Immunization and iron–folic acid supplementation was 99.1% and 98.2%, respectively. Institutional delivery was reported by 85% of women, and 69.1% had normal vaginal deliveries. Only 13.6% received adequate postnatal visits. Early initiation of breastfeeding was practiced by 88.6% of mothers, and 70% reported exclusive breastfeeding. Full immunisation coverage among children was 81.1%. Nearly half of the women (46.8%) were not using any contraceptive method. Maternal and husband’s education, occupation, socioeconomic status and accessibility of services were significantly associated with MCH service utilisation (p<0.05). Conclusion: Although antenatal care coverage and institutional delivery rates were satisfactory, utilisation of postnatal care and contraceptive services remained suboptimal. Socioeconomic and educational factors significantly influenced service uptake. Targeted interventions focusing on postnatal follow-up, family planning and accessibility are required to improve the continuum of maternal and child healthcare in tribal populations. Key words: Maternal and Child Health, Tribal Population, Antenatal Care, Postnatal Care, Health Services Utilization