Maternal morbidity and mortality remain major public health challenges in rural Nigeria, where preventable pregnancy-related complications persist despite the availability of maternal health services. Maternal health literacy plays a critical role in enabling women to recognize danger signs, access skilled care, and adopt appropriate health-seeking behaviours. This study examined the influence of maternal health literacy on maternal morbidity and mortality in Wushishi Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 200 women of reproductive age selected through multistage sampling. Information was obtained using a structured Maternal Health Literacy and Maternal Health Outcomes Questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed a moderate level of maternal health literacy, with higher awareness of antenatal care and skilled delivery than postpartum care. A strong positive and significant relationship was observed between maternal health literacy and maternal health outcomes. Socio-cultural and economic factors were also significantly associated with health literacy. The study concludes that improving maternal health literacy is essential for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality in rural Nigeria.
Keywords: Maternal health literacy, Maternal morbidity, Maternal mortality, Rural Nigeria, Wushishi