Factors predicting birth satisfaction in Hungary

Abstract

Birth satisfaction is influenced by demographic, obstetric and cognitive factors. There is a paucity of research on birth satisfaction in Hungary, despite the country displaying high rates of medical interventions during childbirth. A cross-sectional study was conducted online with 78 Hungarian women. Participants completed the Birth Satisfaction and the Birth Beliefs scales alongside a demographic and obstetric questionnaire. Birth satisfaction was associated with parity, place of birth, pain management methods, delivery mode and adherence to birth plan, as well as beliefs in birth as a medical process, but not with self-efficacy or birth beliefs as a natural process. However, when considered together, none of the variables predicted birth satisfaction, implying that other factors may be at play. Given the limited research on birth satisfaction in Hungary, these results constitute important foundations for further research.