The researchers conducted a study with 500 women to identify aspects of the childbirth experience that are most closely tied to satisfaction with hospital care. Their findings showed that the way hospital staff communicate, show compassion, and involve women in decisions during childbirth has a strong impact on satisfaction. For example, women who were informed about their labor progress and included in pain management decisions rated their experience more positively. Likewise, women who felt their caregivers were respectful and attentive reported greater satisfaction.

To gather these insights, the team collaborated with patients, clinicians and childbirth advocates to develop the Childbirth Experience Survey, which captures women’s expectations before birth and their postpartum experiences. This survey revealed subtle details, such as having adequate physical space for a support person, could significantly influence how women felt about their hospital stay.

The Childbirth Experience Survey identified 23 specific patient-reported outcomes – such as being kept informed and receiving help with labor pain – that were closely linked to positive ratings. Women who felt their cultural and spiritual needs were respected, or who felt they were provided with a safe environment to deliver, were generally happier with their experience. The researchers also found that practical support after birth, such as help with positioning the baby for breastfeeding, led to greater satisfaction.

Gregory and colleagues highlight that existing patient satisfaction surveys don’t capture these childbirth-specific experiences, which limits hospitals’ ability to improve maternity services effectively. By focusing on both emotional and practical needs, hospitals can create a more holistic approach to maternal care.

The team’s findings suggest that by adopting these tailored performance measures, hospitals could improve their satisfaction scores and significantly enhance the childbirth experience for new mothers and their families, making an already life-changing moment feel truly supported and empowering.