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Disrespect and abuse of women during labor and childbirth in Rwanda: A concurrent mixed-method study
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  • Christian Mazimpaka,
  • Emmy Basonga,
  • Bikorimana Laban,
  • Egide Freddy Muragijimana,
  • Annonciata Iradukunda,
  • Laetitia Nyirazinyoye,
  • Chris Adrien Kanakuze,
  • Amedee Fidele Ndibaza,
  • François Niragire,
  • Yves Sangwa,
  • Samson Radeny
Christian Mazimpaka
IntraHealth International Inc
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Emmy Basonga
University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences
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Bikorimana Laban
Partners In Health
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Egide Freddy Muragijimana
IntraHealth International Inc
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Annonciata Iradukunda
University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences
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Laetitia Nyirazinyoye
University of Rwanda School of Public Health
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Chris Adrien Kanakuze

Corresponding Author:chradre@gmail.com

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Amedee Fidele Ndibaza
IntraHealth International Inc
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François Niragire
University of Rwanda College of Business and Economics
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Yves Sangwa
IntraHealth International Inc
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Samson Radeny
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Abstract

Introduction: Disrespect and abuse during childbirth represents a pervasive issue worldwide. In Rwanda, however, research in this area remains scarce. This study evaluated the factors linked to disrespect and abuse during labor and delivery in two Rwandan district hospitals. Methods: Employing a mixed method, cross-sectional design, we studied 280 women giving birth at Kabutare and Kibagabaga hospitals. Analysis was conducted with SPSS version 22, using the Chi-square test to identify factors correlated with childbirth-related disrespect and abuse. Results: Our findings revealed that 27% of women reported verbal abuse and 27.5% reported abandonment by healthcare providers, with 12% experiencing physical abuse during childbirth. Factors increasing the likelihood of experiencing disrespect and abuse included residing in rural areas [AOR=4.06, 95% CI (1.12, 14.7); p=0.03], having only primary education [AOR=2.9, 95% CI: 1.10-8.9, p=0.04], and night-time delivery [AOR=2.23, 95% CI (1.34, 3.03); p=0.03]. However, having a cesarean delivery [AOR=0.23, 95% CI: 0.09-0.59, p=0.002] or having attended antenatal care [AOR=0.28, 95% CI: 0.13-0.81, p=0.029] significantly reduced the risk of such experiences. Conclusion: The study uncovers a high incidence of disrespect and abuse during labor and delivery in Rwanda. The identified risk factors, namely rural residence, lower education, and night-time delivery, highlight specific areas requiring targeted intervention. The results advocate for effective measures to ensure dignified and equitable maternity care for all women.
10 Jul 2023Submitted to Public Health Challenges
10 Jul 2023Submission Checks Completed
10 Jul 2023Assigned to Editor
20 Jul 2023Reviewer(s) Assigned
28 Aug 2023Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
29 Aug 2023Editorial Decision: Revise Major
27 Mar 2024Submission Checks Completed
27 Mar 2024Assigned to Editor
06 Apr 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
06 Apr 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Major