AN EVALUATION OF THE STRESS RELATED TO CHILD CARE AMONG WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE: A CASE STUDY CONDUCTED AT LAGOS STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (LASUTH)

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of stress related to child care experienced by women in the age range of childbearing. The study focused on investigating whether women of childbearing age at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) experience stress related to child care. It aimed to determine the prevalence of child care stress among these women and explore the coping strategies they employ to manage this stress. The research design utilised in the study was a survey with a descriptive approach. A grand total of 141 responses were duly validated from the survey. Based on the obtained and analysed responses, the findings indicate that women of childbearing age in LASUTH experience stress related to child care. The prevalence of this stress among women of childbearing age is high. In addition, women of childbearing age employ various coping strategies to manage the stress associated with child care. These strategies encompass the utilisation of a nanny or a day-care centre, following an exclusive breastfeeding pattern, and providing children with additional micronutrients through supplements after six months. The study suggests that it is important to establish a synergistic relationship between health workers at the University and women of childbearing age. This relationship would focus on managing the stress of child care and creating an efficient and effective communication channel. This can serve as a means to educate mothers about the latest trends in child care practises and strategies for managing stress. Additionally, it can function as a platform for implementing a feedback mechanism and conducting evaluations and assessments of women's advancements and enhancements in child care practises. Furthermore, it is imperative to adopt a comprehensive approach in order to comprehend the various factors that influence women's child care practises. This approach will not only encourage further research on child care practises (CCPs), but also facilitate a deeper understanding of the subject. This intervention has the potential to mitigate children's exposure to substandard child care practises and alleviate stress experienced by mothers.