Maternal social capital, health status and wellbeing of mothers of under-five years in Ibadan, Nigeria

Introduction: This study investigated the influence maternal social capital has on the health and wellbeing of mothers of under-five children in a semi-urban local government area in Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study that utilised a three stage sampling technique was adopted to select 385 respondents from 4 primary health care centres in Ibadan, Nigeria. Data collection was done using a semi-structured questionnaire to assess mothers’ social capital, wellbeing and body Mass Index (BMI). Data analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics at the significant level of P < 0.05. Results: Benefits derived from participating in social groups such as: useful health information (p=0.005), child care support (p=0.003) were significantly associated with wellbeing and health status. A linear regression analysis showed an inverse relationship between getting useful health information as benefit derived from participating in networks and wellbeing (OR: -2.139, C.I.: -0.299 - -0.013) and a direct relationship between developing friendship and a sense of belonging and wellbeing (OR: 2.204; C.I.: 0.015 – 0.260). Conclusions: Mothers should be encouraged to engage in networks that are of healthful benefits to ensure effective knowledge sharing in sustaining promotion of health and wellbeing among mothers of under-five children