PURPOSE:
Since 2018, the Midwifery Education Program at BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and BRAC-operated health centers, has established Midwife-Led Care Centers (MLCs) in Sylhet, Khulna, and Dhaka. A key focus of these centers has been to promote alternative birthing practices—particularly the use of upright positions and birthing chairs for normal vaginal delivery (NVD)—while upholding principles of respectful maternity care. This study aims to explore maternal perceptions and experiences regarding childbirth using birthing chairs within the MLCs operated by trained midwives.

DISCUSSION:
Through a qualitative lens, the study examines how women perceive birthing chair-assisted deliveries. Midwives at MLCs have implemented evidence-informed practices such as birthing ball exercises and birthing chairs, with the goal of empowering mothers to make informed, autonomous choices in their childbirth journey. This client-centered approach fosters dignity and comfort for laboring mothers.

EVIDENCE WHERE RELEVANT:
Data were collected through monthly reports, client exit interviews, and focus group discussions conducted between January 2018 and April 2025. Out of 7,019 normal vaginal deliveries, 6,075 (approximately 86%) were conducted using birthing chairs. This high acceptance rate indicates strong maternal preference. Qualitative data validate that comfort, shorter labor, returning to normal work life in shorter period of time and feelings of empowerment due to the ability to choose birthing positions were key drivers of adoption. Education on safety and benefits further contributed to acceptance.

KEY MESSAGE:
The findings demonstrate a strong maternal inclination toward birthing chair delivery, signaling its viability as a preferred method in comfort and respectful maternity care. Promoting education and awareness about alternative birthing positions may increase informed choice and uptake. Scaling up awareness campaigns and standardizing this option in maternal healthcare policies could address residual misconceptions and promote equitable access to respectful, woman-centered care. Poster session 2 (Group A)