Factors Associated With the Perception of Respectful Maternity Care in Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim: To determine women's perception of respectful maternity care and affecting factors. Methods: This study used a descriptive and cross-sectional design. The study included 267 women who had vaginal delivery. Data were collected through the Personal Information Form and the Women's Perception of Respectful Maternity Care Scale. Results: The women's perception of respectful maternity care total mean score was found 76.36±16.88. Analysis results demonstrated significant differences according to the perception of respectful maternity care total score and sub-scale scores; health personnel who delivered the baby; administration of epidural anesthesia; and the health personnel who provided supportive care during delivery. Conclusions: Participating women in this study had a positive perception of respectful maternity care. The factors affecting women's perception of respectful maternity care were mainly obstetric variables (health personnel who delivered the baby, epidural anesthesia, supportive care during delivery), and sociodemographic variables did not affect the level of perception. In this regard, it is highly important for all health professionals to approach women with the same philosophy to increase women's perception of respectful care.