Perspectives and Experiences of Young Mothers Utilizing Public Healthcare Services in a South African Township

Abstract The prevalence of disrespectful and abusive care by public healthcare workers toward women during labor has been widely described as a health concern in the continent of Africa. Studies conducted in South Africa have outlined the different forms of abusive care, which include disrespect, neglect as well as abandonment. Research conducted on the mistreatment have focused on matured and married women as it has been assumed that childbearing occurs after marriage. This study placed emphasis on the experiences of young women utilizing public healthcare services during childbirth. Using a qualitative method, the study aimed to shed insights into the experiences of young women utilizing public healthcare services. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 young women aged 20 to 25 years living in a South African township. The study findings were thematically analyzed. The interviews suggest that young women experienced different forms of abusive care including, disrespect, abandonment and lack of privacy. The study recommends that the healthcare system in South Africa should effectively address the causes of abusive care and take appropriate action to ensure accountability and that women receive professional and dignified childbirth experience.