The lived experiences of postnatal mothers receiving birth companionship care in Katavi region, Tanzania: A phenomenological study

The study found that women who had a BC during intrapartum experienced mixed feelings. Some participants acknowledged the significant role that BCs played throughout the process. In contrast, others expressed concerns about knowledge and privacy violations and opted not to have a BC present during childbirth. However, they consented to their presence during the first stage of labor. The women employed various methods to select their BCs, who assumed a range of responsibilities in providing care, both formally and informally. It is essential to enhance community awareness of the importance of BCs during labor and childbirth, as well as to provide them with training during the antenatal period to understand their roles better.