Background: This study presents qualitative investigations showed in Mdantsane a township in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The aim of the study is to examine the socio-demographic determinants of maternal health care utilization in this province. Conclusion: The study has indicated that most health professionals and patients (women) are not aware of the available maternal health services, and this lack of awareness leads to a minimal utilization of such services. Methods The qualitative investigation revealed some information with regard to the determinants of maternal health care utilization in the study area. Results: The investigation suggests that lack of awareness about the maternal health services offered within the public health system is an important determinant of the frequency in which maternal health services are used.