Phenomenological Insights into Partograph Utilization Among Midwives in Rural Ghana

This study explored experiences of partograph use and its impact on obstetric care among 34 midwives in rural Ghana, using a phenomenological study design. Data were collected through interviews, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed using Atlas.ti software. The findings revealed that midwives perceived partographs use as easy and beneficial for monitoring labor, with potential to improve maternal and newborn outcomes. However, partograph utilization was constrained by staff shortages, inadequate resources, and insufficient training. The study concludes that improving labor outcomes requires increased midwife staffing, comprehensive training. and enforcement of partograph use, as well as consistent availability of essential resources.