Factors Influencing Nulliparous Women Experiences During Pregnancy and Childbirth in Selected Healthcare Facilities in Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State

Review Article

Abstract

This study examined the factors influencing the pregnancy and childbirth experiences of nulliparous women attending antenatal care clinics in selected health facilities in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study assessed the common experiences of nulliparous women during pregnancy and childbirth, identified factors influencing these experiences, examined the role of healthcare providers, and explored coping strategies adopted to enhance maternal experiences. A descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was adopted, using a quantitative approach. The study population comprised registered nulliparous women attending antenatal care clinics in selected primary healthcare facilities, from which a sample size of 112 respondents was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula; however, 109 valid questionnaires were retrieved and analyzed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from antenatal care exit surveys and analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (regression analysis) to test the stated hypotheses. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents experienced physical discomforts such as nausea, fatigue, body aches, anxiety, and fear of labour, indicating both physical and psychological vulnerability among first-time mothers. Social support, educational level, and socioeconomic status positively influenced pregnancy and childbirth experiences, while fear of the unknown, body changes, health status, and negative healthcare provider attitudes were identified as major challenges. Healthcare providers played a significant role in shaping maternal experiences through clear communication, supportive attitudes, and professional competence, although gaps remained in cultural sensitivity and individualized care. Coping strategies such as participation in antenatal education sessions, peer support groups, stress-management techniques, and childbirth preparation were found to significantly enhance women’s experiences. Regression results confirmed that education, income, healthcare provider roles, and coping strategies significantly predicted pregnancy and childbirth experiences, while age and marital status were not significant. The study concludes that pregnancy and childbirth experiences of nulliparous women in Otukpo are shaped by a complex interaction of physical, emotional, social, socioeconomic, and healthcare-related factors. Strengthening antenatal education, social support systems, respectful maternity care, and structured coping strategies is essential to improving maternal experiences and outcomes among first-time mothers.