Women's perceptions of childbirth experience at a hospital in rural Tanzania
Shimpuku, Y.; Patil, C.L.; Norr, K.F.; Hill, P.D.
Health Care for Women International 34(6): 461-481
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 0739-9332 PMID: 23470119 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2012.708374Document Number: 574020
Tanzania's health care provider shortage, especially in rural areas, makes it challenging to meet women's support needs in hospitals. We describe women's perceptions of childbirth support at a hospital in rural Tanzania. We interviewed 25 women within 24 hours after delivery using semistructured interviews. Most women sought life-saving technological support in case of complications. They also valued having family present to provide care and affection. Women's needs, however, were difficult to fulfill at this busy facility. Increasing women-centered childbirth support and recognizing family as important contributors may provide a strategy to meet the needs of both women and providers.