“Heard or unheard?”: A qualitative inquiry into the nuanced experiences of mothers with intrapartum care in Kano, Nigeria

Childbirth significantly affects maternal and neonatal outcomes, with negative experiences leading to consequences such as postpartum depression, self-care neglect, sleeping problems, post-traumatic stress disorder, and reluctance to use health facilities and recommend hospital deliveries to other women. This study aimed to explore the maternal experiences of intrapartum care in Kano, Nigeria. This study used a qualitative narrative inquiry design that adhered to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines. In-depth interviews with 11 postpartum women who delivered via spontaneous vaginal delivery were conducted using a pretested interview guide on maternal experiences of intrapartum care. Two trained female research assistants and a lead researcher facilitated the interviews, which were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated. Thematic analysis, supported by NVivo software, was used to identify patterns and themes that reflected participants’ experiences. Three main themes emerged: (1) dignified care during birth, which emphasized positive experiences with midwives and healthcare personnel; (2) intense pain and search for relief, which highlighted the challenging nature of labor; and (3) inadequate care and neglect, which captured negative experiences with wait times, lack of support, and verbal abuse. This study highlights the diverse range of maternal experiences during childbirth in Kano, Nigeria, including the positive and negative aspects of intrapartum care. The findings emphasize the importance of respectful, patient-centered care in enhancing maternal satisfaction and emotional well-being. Implications for nursing practice include strengthening training in compassionate care, improving pain management practices, increasing the presence of companions during childbirth, and addressing systemic gaps that contribute to neglectful care, thereby promoting better maternal experiences and outcomes.