Factors Associated with Labor Companionship in Rwanda A Mixed method study

Abstract

Background: Labor companionship is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and was proved beneficial for childbirth experience and outcomes. Little is known about this practice in Rwanda. This study aimed at assessing the perspectives and experiences of women towards labor companionship and possible associated factors. Methods: A prospective mixed-method study was used to recruit 406 mothers in post-partum at three public hospitals in Kigali with a high volume of deliveries using a simple random sampling method; data were collected in 4 months. Results: Survey questionnaires were completed with a response rate of 100%, 406 out of 406. Ninety-nine percent of mothers expressed that companionship increases happiness, while 88.4% reported it to reduce loneliness. Eighty percent said they help reduce fear, 37% expressed that their companions can help them prevent abuse from healthcare providers, and 33% agreed that companions could help reduce labor pain. All the participants perceive well companionship