Perceptions of Quality Obstetric Care Options Among Rural Pregnant Women utilizing Maternity Centers

African Journal of Nursing and Midwifery | Vol. 14, No. 9, September 2026 | pp. 216–224

DOI: 10.46882/2026/AJNM/000156

Original Research Article

Title: Perceptions of Quality Obstetric Care Options Among Rural Pregnant Women utilizing Maternity Centers

Names of Authors: Chisomo T. Banda¹, Kwame O. Mensah²

Authors’ Affiliations:
¹Kamuzu College of Nursing, University of Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
²Department of Nursing, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana

Abstract:
The utilization of rural clinical maternity services depends heavily on patient perceptions of safety and respect, which deeply impacts maternal health outcomes. This descriptive mixed-methods study investigated maternal satisfaction tiers, cultural treatment expectations, and care barriers among rural pregnant women visiting peripheral maternity units. A quantitative exit survey of 210 clients was supported by four qualitative focus group sessions. Quantitative scores indicated an overall maternal satisfaction rate of 56.4%. However, long waiting lines emerged as a primary concern, with a mean wait time of 3.8 ± 1.2 hours. Qualitative transcripts identified a lack of physical modesty screens in delivery suites and unsupportive communication styles from overextended staff as major reasons for patient dissatisfaction. Reagent stockouts restricted basic lab tests (urinalysis and hemoglobin profiling) during 64.3% of documented antenatal visits. High satisfaction marks were tied to the availability of clean water facilities and free malaria prophylaxis distribution. Improving clinic utilization requires restructuring rural logistics lines, upgrading privacy barriers inside delivery rooms, and expanding respectful care training for midwives.

Keywords: Obstetric Care; Maternal Satisfaction; Rural Healthcare; Midwifery Communication; Antenatal Monitoring; Patient Privacy.

Manuscript Timeline: Received July 18, 2026; Revised September 01, 2026; Accepted September 18, 2026; Published September 28, 2026.

Citation: Banda, C. T., & Mensah, K. O. (2026). Perceptions of Quality Obstetric Care Options Among Rural Pregnant Women utilizing Maternity Centers. African Journal of Nursing and Midwifery, 14(9), 216–224. DOI: 10.46882/2026/AJNM/000156

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