Childbirth Experience and Its Related Socio-Demographic Factors in Mothers Admitted to Postpartum Ward of AL Zahra Hospital of Rasht City, (Iran)

Abstract

Background and Objectives: A positive childbirth experience is associated with sense of control, power, and satisfaction in mother, which affects mother’s sexual activity with her newborn, her sexual activity and her planning for future pregnancies. This study aimed to determine the childbirth experience and its related socio-demographic factors. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 165 mothers who were hospitalized in postpartum ward of AL Zahra hospital in Rasht city (2017), were selected by available sampling method. The data collection tools were socio-demographic and childbirth experience (CEQ) questionnaires. Data were analyzed using Pearson`s correlation coefficient, independent t-, one-way ANOVA, and logistic regression tests. Results: Total mean score of mothers` childbirth experience was 58.13 10.72 (score range, 22-88). The mean standard score (1-4) in professional support domain (3.15±0.7) was higher than other domains, and the mean standardized scores of the mother participation domain (2.0 21.84) was lower than the other domains. Moreover, mode of delivery (p=0.005) and gestational age (p=0.004), were the most important factors that had significant correlation with mother’s childbirth experience. Conclusion: According to the results, the effective communication of health care providers, mother`s active participation during delivery, high gestational age, and normal vaginal delivery are the most important factors associated with positive childbirth experience. Therefore, avoiding unnecessary interventions, such as termination of pregnancy at a low gestational age without the maternal and fetal indications and higher maternal participation in the process of delivery seem necessary.

Keywords

• childbirth experience
• related factors
• postpartum.