FACTORS AND PREFERENCES IN THE METHODS OF CHILDBIRTH DELIVERY AMONG PREGNANT TAUSUG WOMEN IN JOLO, SULU

Abstract

Background: Childbirth is a momentous occurrence in a woman's existence, symbolizing the culmination of the reproductive process and the initiation of the maternal role. Objectives: To describe and correlate the characteristics of pregnant Tausug women, factors affecting their childbirth, and the preferred methods of childbirth delivery. Methods: A descriptive-correlational was applied with pregnant Tausug women in Jolo, Sulu (n=120) selected using stratified simple random sampling guided by a criterion. A valid and reliable three-part instrument were completed by the participants face-to-face and online mode after ensuring informed consent and ethics approval. The collected data were analyzed using frequency distribution, mean, standard deviation, Cramer's V, and Pearson's r. Results: Parents and relatives, decision-making autonomy, cultural and religious beliefs, transportation, proximity to the hospital, and financial capabilities all affect childbirth decisions. Tausug mothers choose normal birth because of cultural beliefs, personal experiences, and family and partner preference. The study also found that those with more children or influenced by childbirth circumstances are more likely to have specific childbirth delivery preferences. Conclusion: This research could help to improve the quality of care for Tausug women during childbirth and to ensure that their needs are met. Moreso, healthcare providers should be aware of the cultural and religious beliefs that may influence childbirth decisions. Future research could explore the impact of childbirth experiences on the mental and physical health of Tausug women.