Satisfaction with Quality Maternity Care and its Determinants During Labour and Childbirth among Women: A Facility-based Study

Abstract

Introduction

Satisfaction with childbirth is an important indicator of the quality of maternity care and strongly influences the utilization of maternal health services. Therefore, this study aimed to identify women's satisfaction with the quality of maternity care during labour and childbirth, and its determinants.

Methods

A facility-based observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 406 pregnant women in their third trimester in antenatal clinics and followed up in the postpartum period. A systematic random sampling was used, and data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis.

Results

Among the women who participated in the study, the level of satisfaction differed across various dimensions of care experienced during labour and childbirth. Over 365(89.9%) of women were satisfied with providers' communication, whereas 378 (93.1%) were satisfied with maternity care services. Respectful and dignified care was expressed by 368 (90.6%), emotional support was reported by 334 (82.3%) women, and 372 (91.6%) were satisfied with the physical facilities available during labour and childbirth. Overall, 375 (92.4%) women were satisfied with quality maternity care. Moreover, women’s satisfaction was determined by income status (AOR=0.363(0.156-0.844, p=0.019), parity (OR=2.679(1.133-6.336, p=0.025), and mode of delivery (AOR= 3.957(1.632-9.595, p=0.002).

Conclusions

Though most women experienced overall satisfaction, emotional support and physical facilities were reported to be relatively lower. Strengthening woman-centered, respectful care through enhanced emotional support, improved facilities, and continuous training of service providers is recommended to improve maternal satisfaction.