Indonesian midwives’ experiences in delivering childbirth services: A qualitative study

Background: Quality healthcare services during childbirth are essential for the safety of mothers and newborns. Despite global efforts to improve maternal and neonatal health, many challenges remain, particularly in low-resource settings. Midwives play a vital role in ensuring safe childbirth and improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to explore midwives’ experiences in delivering childbirth services in Ungaran City, Central Java Province, Indonesia. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological was employed. Data were collected in June 2021 through semi-structured interviews with six midwives. Colaizzi’s methods were used to analyze the data. Results: The findings revealed two main themes: 1) Challenges commonly faced in childbirth services, which include subthemes of economic and pragmatic concerns, socio-cultural beliefs and traditions, perceived necessity of midwifery services, access to services, and public perception of the knowledge and skills of childbirth providers; and 2) Reasons for choosing home childbirth, with subthemes of economic factors, cultural and ritualistic perceptions, access to health facilities, and comfort. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of addressing economic and socio-cultural factors to improve maternal healthcare in rural areas. Collaboration between midwives and traditional birth attendants can enhance trust and ensure safer outcomes. Future studies are needed to explore how to integrate these practices for improved healthcare delivery.