Maathru Samman Pants: Enhancing Privacy and Dignity for Pregnant Women and Birth Companions in Primary Health Care

Background: Respectful maternity care (RMC) prioritizes dignity, privacy, and autonomy during childbirth. In low-resource primary health centers (PHCs), the lack of delivery gown availability compromises these aspects, leading to discomfort and reduced patient satisfaction in PHCs. This study on Maathru Samman Pants (MSPs), a culturally sensitive garment designed with functional flaps, aims to enhance privacy, comfort, and dignity during labor, as well as assess the satisfaction, acceptability, and demand for MSPs among pregnant women and their birth companions in PHC settings across four Indian regions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted across eight PHCs in North, South, East, and West India. A total of 80 pregnant women and 60 birth companions participated. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The quantitative data covered satisfaction, acceptability, and demand using Likert scales, yes/no, and open-ended formats. The qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Results: Most PW (pregnant women) were aged 21–30 years, mainly Hindu, 34 (42.5%), or Christian, 27 (33.75%), with 71.25% homemakers. PW highly rated MSPs for covering the body, preventing cold, comfort, and ease of use. They felt cared for and respected, with a mean ± SD of 4.47 ± 0.57, and agreed that MSPs maintained privacy and cultural norms. Demand was strong, with 76 (95%) supporting the introduction of MSPs and 74 (92.5%) willing to use them again. Most PW, 66 (82.5%), and BCs (birth companions), 49 (81.67%), accepted MSPs positively, with a few reporting discomfort or changes. Conclusions: MSPs demonstrated high satisfaction, strong acceptability, and future demand among PW. This study addresses key gaps in respectful maternity care at the PHC level by enhancing privacy, preserving cultural norms, and improving comfort. Integrating MSPs into maternal health protocols could significantly improve birthing experiences in resource-limited settings.