Exploring the perception of Afghan childbearing women about respectful maternity care: a qualitative study in Afghanistan

Abstract

Pregnancy and childbirth are critical periods for women, yet thousands of women and newborns die annually due to preventable factors. Despite global efforts, progress in reducing maternal mortality has been slow, especially in low-income and conflict-affected countries like Afghanistan. Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) is essential to improving maternal health outcomes, but mistreatment during childbirth in Afghan healthcare facilities deters women from seeking necessary care. This qualitative study explores the perceptions of Afghan childbearing women regarding RMC during childbirth. Through thematic analysis of interviews with nine women who recently gave birth in a major maternity hospital in Kabul, significant barriers and challenges were identified. The findings reveal that Afghan women frequently endure verbal and physical abuse, discrimination based on financial status and connections, lack of informed consent, and non-dignified care. These factors contribute to a lack of trust in facility-based childbirth, perpetuating high maternal mortality rates. The study underscores the urgent need to implement RMC practices that ensure fairness, compassion, and dignity to improve the maternal healthcare experience and outcomes in Afghanistan.