Table 1 Codes and themes from the content analysis of the perceptions and experiences of postnatal-mothers and nurse-midwives
Participants | Codes | Theme |
|---|---|---|
Postnatal Mothers | - I assume the position instructed by the midwife - I was asked to lay on my back - Other positions were not seen well by midwives | Women adopted the supine position as instructed by the midwives |
- I usually see women lie on their backs - I have never used them - Never taught about birthing positions | Women experience of using alternative birthing positions | |
Nurse-Midwives | - The midwife is the one who knows/chooses the best position - No choice of birthing position for the birthing woman - Midwives decide for the woman which birthing position to use - The midwife needs to educate the mother on the best position - Mothers are not allowed to choose the birthing position they want | Midwives commonly decide birthing position for labouring women |
- Known birth position - Commonly used supine position - Helpful to the woman and the baby - Aids proper observation and delivery - Facilitate quick decision - The woman lay on her back flex legs - Only birthing position taught in schools - The supine position is best as it gives midwife freedom when assisting the woman | Supine is the best-known birthing position |