Table 1 Application of the diffusion of innovation theory constructs to maternity waiting homes

Relative advantage

Community members believe that using an MWH is better than going to a health facility for delivery when labor starts or delivering at home

Compatibility

MWH is culturally acceptable and meets the needs of the pregnant women staying there

Complexity

How difficult the MWH is to use

Trialability

Extent to which the MWH can be tested before actual use (i.e. through prior stays or touring the new MWHs before needing to stay)

Observability

Extent to which the women are influenced to use the MWH by their peers who have used the MWH and reported back on tangible results. Women may have seen or heard about the MWH while attending health education classes or using services at the health facility