Perceived Effect of Companionship During Labour on Labour and Delivery Outcome at Plateau State Specialist Hospital Jos

ABSTRACT
Labour and companionship during birth is a very important part of the care received by parturient to ensure there is respectful maternity care and positive labour outcomes. An understanding of the effect of companionship on parturient and newborns is critical to seeing the need to preserve companionship in healthcare facilities, the lack of which has been seen to deter women from going for hospital-based delivery care. This study sought to determine the perceived effect of companionship during labour on labour and delivery outcome of pregnant women at Plateau State Specialist Hospital Jos (PSSH). A quasi experimental design was used, and a census sampling technique was employed, using an observation checklist to collect data from 30 parturient. The results revealed that the majority (80%) of the parturient had companions, out of which 42% were between the ages of 20 and 29, and 83% were married. Additionally, 88% and 85% of babies born to mothers who were supported by trusted companions had APGAR scores of of 7 and above at the 1- and 5-minute timeframe respectively. Furthermore, 86% of parturient with low levels of anxiety had companions. Also, 40% of parturient who had severe pain and 92% of those who experienced moderate pain had companions who supported them. The findings suggest that the presence of companions has a significant impact in reducing anxiety and pain perception among parturient, increases the chances of having more babies with APGAR scores of 7 and above at 1- and 5-minute, and improving respectful care at hospitals, to give parturient a better experience.