Factors intervening in the childbirth experience: a mixed-methods study

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Positive childbirth experiences are influenced by various factors, including clinical interventions and patient rights.
• Understanding women's perceptions is vital for improving maternity care quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze childbirth experiences, focusing on influencing factors and delivery methods.
• To identify barriers and facilitators of positive childbirth experiences.

Main Methods:

• A sequential, explanatory mixed-methods study involving 265 women in quantitative and 44 in qualitative stages.
• Utilized the "Women- and Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative Thermometer" questionnaire and semi-structured interviews.
• Employed descriptive analysis, Poisson regression, and thematic analysis for data integration.

Main Results:

• Cesarean sections (61.9%) were associated with negative experiences due to fear, treatment, and past trauma.
• Restrictions included lack of a companion (99.6%), privacy (83%), and respectful treatment (69.5%).
• Promoting factors included choice of companion (95.4%), no infections (83.9%), continuous monitoring (82.2%), and pain relief (78.9%).

Conclusions:

• Positive experiences are linked to clinical factors and service availability.
• Negative experiences stem from excessive interventions, rights deprivation, lack of privacy, and restricted companionship.
• Urgent action is needed to ensure women's experiences are safe and respectful.