Mothers’ and Midwives’ and Nurses’ Perception of Caring Behaviors During Childbirth: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Understanding mothers’ caring preferences during childbirth and midwives’ and nurses’ perception of mothers’ caring needs may enhance more satisfying birth experiences and positive health outcomes. The purpose of this descriptive comparative study was to identify the important caring behaviors provided during childbirth as perceived by mothers and midwives and nurses and the congruence of these perceptions between the two groups. A convenient sample of 100 postpartum mothers and 109 midwives and nurses was recruited from maternity settings in public hospitals in Jordan. This study demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the perceptions of caring behaviors between mothers and midwives and nurses. Mothers rated the need for spiritual caring behaviors as essential, while midwives and nurses did not perceive spiritual caring as a necessary part of their caregiving role. To design effective interventions that support a woman’s experience, midwives and nurses must identify and prioritize behaviors that convey caring to women during the intrapartum period.