Cluster randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a package of community-based intervention on continuum of maternal and newborn healthcare in Sidama, Ethiopia:The SiMaNeH trial protocol

Background Maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity remain high in low-and middle-income countries such as Ethiopia. Limited access and dropouts from essential continuum of care interventions are critical factors. In Ethiopia about one in five complete the continuum of essential care through pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal period Ethiopia. Evidence is limited on whether a package of interventions involving key community health actors increase the proportion completing essential maternal and newborn healthcare continuum in rural Sidama regional state, Ethiopia.