Factors influencing the childbirth experience of mothers underwent labour induction in Northwest Ethiopia: A Mixed-methods Study

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Background</h3> Induction of labor is an obstetric intervention. It can be a significant biomedical and psychosocial event, resulting in a range of positive or negative childbirth experiences. Gaining in-depth knowledge in these areas may help improve the quality of care and the utilization of maternity services. However, in Ethiopia, no studies have been conducted to date. <h3>Objective</h3> To assess mothers' childbirth experiences and influencing factors among those who underwent induction of labor. <h3>Methods</h3> A facility-based mixed-methods study was conducted from 5 May to August 20, 2025 among 422 mothers. Data were collected using contextualized tools. Audio transcription and translation were performed for the qualitative data. Logistic regression analysis was used, with a P-value of less than 0.05 considered significant. Thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. <h3>Results</h3> The proportion of positive childbirth experiences was 236 (55.9 %) (95 % CI: 51.2–60.7). Being multiparous (AOR = 8.63, 95 % CI: 5.21–14.27), having a vaginal delivery (AOR = 2.11, 95 % CI: 1.31–3.41), age under 20 (AOR = 4.65, 95 % CI: 1.53–14.13), and age 21–30 (AOR = 2.35, 95 % CI: 1.22–4.51) were associated factors. The identified facilitators were trust building at admission, clear communication, and labour pain coping strategies. In contrast, feeling disturbed and lack of involvement were barriers that negatively affected mothers' childbirth experiences. <h3>Conclusion</h3> The proportion of positive childbirth experiences was moderate. Building trust, clear communication with healthcare providers, and strategies to manage labour pain were facilitators. Emotional disturbances and lack of involvement were barriers to a positive childbirth experience.