'To be Informed and Involved': Women's insights on optimising childbirth care in Lithuania

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Healthcare Quality
• Patient Experience Research

Background:

• Healthcare quality evaluations increasingly incorporate user expectations and experiences.
• Understanding women's views on childbirth care is crucial for improving services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze women's experiences and perspectives on childbirth care in Lithuania.
• To identify key areas for improvement in maternal healthcare services.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Babies Born Better (B3) online survey, an international longitudinal project.
• Analyzed qualitative data from 373 women using a deductive coding framework based on literature review.
• Focused on open-ended responses regarding positive aspects and areas for change in intrapartum care.

Main Results:

• Women sought empowerment, autonomy in decision-making, privacy, and information, particularly on breastfeeding.
• Emotional experiences emphasized safety, manageability of situations, and bonding with newborns.
• Care provider competence, availability, and respectful interaction were key aspects of individually experienced care.

Conclusions:

• Lithuanian healthcare is transitioning from paternalistic to patient-oriented childbirth care.
• Enhancements require additional services, improved emotional and interpersonal care, and a more active patient role.
• Findings align with salutogenic principles, promoting health and well-being.