Social Determinants of Prenatal Care Adherence among Women in Marginalized Urban Areas: A Cross-Sectional Study

Lirios CG

Published on: 2025-12-04

Abstract

Timely and adequate prenatal care is essential for preventing adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. However, in marginalized urban settings, social determinants such as income level, education, and institutional trust often impact women's adherence to prenatal care protocols. This cross-sectional study explores the influence of these determinants on prenatal care adherence in peri-urban communities of Mexico City. Using structured questionnaires administered to 420 pregnant women across six community health centers, the findings reveal that institutional mistrust, low educational attainment, and unstable housing significantly predict missed or delayed prenatal visits. Recommendations are proposed to strengthen community-based trust mechanisms, improve maternal health literacy, and integrate social support services into perinatal healthcare