Maternal satisfaction with emergency obstetric and newborn care services in Ethiopia and the associated factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: In approximately 15% of all pregnancies, a potentially fatal complication that necessitates medical attention arises, requiring a significant obstetrical intervention for the pregnant women to survive. Between 70% and 80% of maternal life-threating complication have been treated through emergency obstetric and newborn services. This study investigates women’s satisfaction with emergency obstetric and newborn care services in Ethiopia and factors associated with their satisfaction.

Methods: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched electronic databases, such as PubMed, Google Scholar, HINARI, Scopus, and Web of Sciences for primary studies. A standardized data collection measurement tool was used to extract the data. STATA 11 statistical software was used to analyze the data, and I2 tests were used to evaluate heterogeneity. The pooled prevalence of maternal satisfaction was predicted using a random-effects model.

Results: Eight studies were included. The pooled prevalence of maternal satisfaction with emergency obstetric and neonatal care services was 63.15% (95% confidence interval: 49.48–76.82). Age (odds ratio = 2.88, 95% confidence interval: 1.62–5.12), presence of birth companion (odds ratio = 2.66, 95% confidence interval: 1.34–5.29), satisfaction with health workers’ attitudes (odds ratio = 4.02, 95% confidence interval: 2.91–5.55), educational status (odds ratio = 3.59, 95% confidence interval: 1.42–9.08), length of stay at health facility (odds ratio = 3.71, 95% confidence interval: 2.79–4.94), and antenatal care visits (odds ratio = 2.22, 95% confidence interval: 1.52–3.24) were associated with maternal satisfaction with emergency obstetric and neonatal care service.
'Conclusion: This study found a low level of overall maternal satisfaction with emergency obstetric and neonatal care services. To increase maternal satisfaction and utilization, the government should focus on improving the standards of emergency maternal, obstetric, and newborn care by identifying gaps in maternal satisfaction regarding the services provided by healthcare professionals.