Psychosocial Support to Women During Labour and after Delivery Among Postnatal Mothers in Selected Secondary and Tertiary Hospitals in Benin City

Abstract

Psychosocial support during labour and the postnatal period is essential for maternal wellbeing, yet evidence indicates that such support is often inconsistently provided in many healthcare settings. This study assessed the level of psychosocial support received by postnatal mothers during labour and after delivery in secondary and tertiary hospitals in Benin City, as well as its predictors and association with social support. A multistage sampling technique was used to recruit 277 postnatal mothers from three hospitals in Benin City. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with SPSS version 27. Descriptive and inferential statistics including binary logistic regression were applied to examine psychosocial support levels, their determinants, and relationships with social support. Findings showed that 51% of mothers reported high psychosocial support, while 49% reported low support. Emotional and empathetic care were the most positively perceived components (59.2% and 55.3%, respectively; mean ≥ 2.6), whereas companionship and spiritual support were rated lower (mean ≤ 2.4). Although 80.5% of respondents reported receiving some form of support, overall social support remained low (grand mean = 2.4), while perceived emotional and psychological benefits were moderate (grand mean = 2.6). Many participants experienced reduced fear and anxiety (51.3%), improved confidence (49.9%), and enhanced mother–infant bonding (51.3%). Logistic regression showed that receiving support significantly predicted higher psychosocial and social support levels (OR = 5.25 and 3.67; p < 0.001). A significant association was also found between social and psychosocial support (p = 0.03). Psychosocial support for labouring and postnatal mothers in Benin City hospitals is present but inconsistent, with marked gaps in companionship and spiritual care. The study recommends strengthening healthcare worker training, promoting labour companionship, and adopting culturally sensitive support strategies to improve maternal satisfaction and postnatal outcomes.