Mothers’ perceptions of the quality of maternity services at Finnish maternity units : a cross-sectional study

Abstract

<div lang="en" class="abs"><p class="abs_header">Abstract</p><p>Knowledge about mothers’ perceptions of the quality of Finnish maternity services is limited. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to describe mothers’ perceptions of the quality of Finnish maternity services, and to identify background factors associated with them. The data were collected from 1,760 mothers in autumn 2016. Descriptive statistics were used. This study is reported in accordance with STROBE. Most mothers (84%) considered the quality of the maternity services good. The mean response values for the quality of patient education (3.9), staff knowledge and skills (4.3), and hospital environment (4.3) were good. Parity and mode of childbirth were associated with perceptions of the quality of maternity services. Based on the results, development of midwifery and nursing practices should focus on sufficient pain relief, adequate duration of skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding counselling and opportunities for mothers to reflect on their birth experience afterwards. Moreover, the study results can be used for education. Challenges for future research are presented.</p></div>