Women's Perspectives of Childbirth in Kiboga, Uganda.

OBJECTIVE

To gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of women who gave birth at the Kiboga District Hospital in Uganda through analysis of their childbirth stories.

DESIGN

Qualitative interpretive description.

SETTING

The maternity ward of the Kiboga District Hospital in Uganda.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty women, ages 19 to 43 years, within 24 hours of childbirth.

METHOD

I conducted in-depth interviews with the help of a local professional translator to capture the unique experiences of the participants regarding their birth experiences, perceptions, and personal feelings.

RESULTS

Qualitative interpretive and descriptive analysis revealed two main themes that each consisted of a number of subthemes: Cultural Norms of Childbirth (Women's Status, Submissiveness, and Silence/Acceptance) and the Childbirth Process and Its Impact (Loss, Coping and Overcoming Difficulties, and Physical Well-Being).

CONCLUSION

Women need to feel supported and valued to deal with their childbirth experiences. Incorporating the professional support of experienced midwives in an enabling environment and providing access to a sufficiently equipped health care facility may improve the mental and physical state of women who give birth in Uganda and help them return to optimal functioning.