Barriers and facilitators to implementing the birth preparedness and complication readiness strategy: midwives’ perceptions

Maternal mortality remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, largely due to delays in accessing skilled care. Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) is a strategy designed to improve timely access to care. This study explores midwives’ perspectives on barriers and facilitators to BPCR implementation in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. A qualitative study was conducted involving in-depth semi-structured interviews with 14 purposively selected midwives from four healthcare facilities in Ogbomoso. Data were analyzed using Tesch’s eight-step thematic analysis approach. Barriers to BPCR implementation included poverty, cultural resistance, health illiteracy, staffing shortages, geographical barriers, and limited male involvement. Facilitators included visual health education, support from community and religious leaders, family involvement, peer support among midwives, and NGO assistance. Midwives face complex barriers in promoting BPCR in resource-limited settings. Strengthening health systems, enhancing community engagement, and improving training and support for midwives are key to improving maternal health outcomes.