May
5
Mon
2025
15. Perception of Water birth: A Mixed Method Study of Reproductive Age Women in Gombe State
May 5 @ 12:00 – 12:50
15. Perception of Water birth: A Mixed Method Study of Reproductive Age Women in Gombe State @ Zoom

Speakers: Salamatu Umar, Hayat Imaam Gomma & Mardiya Adamu

Facilitator: Jane Houston

Background: Globally, water birth is viewed with mixed opinions. While some countries endorse it for benefits like pain relief and a soothing birthing environment, others are cautious due to safety concerns and limited evidence on long-term outcomes.

Aim: This study assessed perceptions of water birth among reproductive-age women in Gombe State, Nigeria, focusing on perceived benefits and risks.

Method: A sequential explanatory mixed-method design was used, incorporating multistage cluster sampling. Data were collected from 418 respondents via self-structured and online questionnaires. In-depth interviews were conducted in the qualitative phase using convenience sampling. Ethical guidelines were strictly followed. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.

Result: Findings indicated that 77.25% of participants held a positive view of water birth, with 80.9% believing it enhances the birth experience. However, 54.8% identified neonatal water aspiration as a potential risk. Qualitative results highlighted mixed perceptions: while some participants were positive and interested in trying water birth, others remained skeptical, expressing concerns about its safety.

Conclusion: The study found a generally positive perception of water birth among reproductive-age women, though concerns about neonatal risks such as water aspiration and maternal infection persisted.

Recommendations: Community outreach programs are essential to address misconceptions and skepticism engaging community leaders to foster positive perceptions and Support from NGOs for advocacy, funding, and awareness-raising to enhance water birth’s acceptance and safety in Gombe State.