Exploring women's experiences of maternity service delivery in regional Tasmania: a descriptive qualitative study

Abstract: The objective of this study is to explore and understand the experiences of women who receive antenatal, birthing, and postnatal care from an integrated maternity services model in a regional area in Tasmania, Australia. This descriptive qualitative study included semi-structured, one-on-one interviews with 14 mothers aged >18 years, who were living in a regional area of Tasmania and had accessed maternity health services. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: (i) talking about me, (ii) is this normal? and (iii) care practices. Overall, women cited mostly negative experiences from a poorly implemented fragmented service. These experiences included feelings of isolation, frustration over receiving conflicting advice, feeling ignored, and minimal to no continuity of care. In contrast, women also experienced the euphoric feelings of birth, immense support, guidance, and encouragement. Regional women's experiences of maternity care may be improved if health services work towards place-based continuity of care models. These models should be informed by the local women's experiences and needs in order to achieve better communication, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote positive breastfeeding experiences.