Abstract:
The timing of the first antenatal care visit is paramount important to ensure optimal health outcomes for women and children. It is recommended that all pregnant women initiate antenatal care within the first trimester of pregnancy. Women present for antenatal care early in their pregnancy period allow enough time for essential and feasible interventions, prevention of complications and early identification of underlying conditions. However, existing evidence from developing countries including Ethiopia indicate that few women seek antenatal care at early stage of their pregnancy.