Referral of intrapartum mothers attending the maternity unit at Bwikhonge Health Center III, Bulambuli District. A cross-sectional study.

Background: Intrapartum referral is an important component of maternal healthcare aimed at ensuring mothers with obstetric complications receive timely and appropriate management. This study assesses the maternal and health system factors contributing to intrapartum referrals among mothers. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design using quantitative methods was conducted among 44 respondents using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings were presented in tables, figures, frequencies, and percentages. Results: The study found that most (54.5%) of the respondents attended four or more ANC visits and (60%) received education on danger signs during pregnancy. Most (63.6%) understood why they were referred, while the majority (81.8%) did not require permission before seeking referral care. Regarding health system factors, more than half (52.3%) reported that health workers clearly explained the referral process. However, most (65.9%) were not given referral notes or forms, and half (50%) used motorcycles as a means of transport during referral. Most (63.6%) received immediate care on arrival at the referral facility, and the majority (95.5%) reported that referral improved their condition. Maternal awareness, ANC attendance, understanding of referral reasons, and trust in referral facilities positively influenced referral compliance. However, inadequate referral documentation, poor communication, and limited emergency transport services negatively affected the referral process. Conclusion: Maternal referral compliance was generally good, but documentation, communication, and emergency transport gaps require urgent strengthening. Recommendations: Health workers should strengthen maternal education and ensure proper referral documentation and communication. Health facilities and the Ministry of Health should improve emergency transport systems and strengthen referral coordination between facilities.