Exploring Mothers’ Experiences and Perceptions of Postpartum Care in King Khaled University Hospital: A Qualitative Study

Background: Postpartum care is essential for maternal and newborn well-being, yet it remains under-prioritised in many healthcare systems. In Saudi Arabia, traditional practices and systemic challenges influence the accessibility and quality of postnatal services. This study explores the mothers’ lived experiences during the early postnatal period and identifies strengths, gaps, and culturally relevant needs. Methods: A reflexive qualitative design was employed using semi-structured interviews with 20 postpartum mothers at King Khaled University Hospital, Riyadh. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Findings were interpreted through the World Health Organisation (WHO) Postnatal Care Guidelines and Pender’s Health Promotion Model. Results: Interviews with 20 mothers revealed four overarching themes that shape their experiences of postpartum care: physical recovery and birth experience, informational and educational support, emotional and social support, and systemic and cultural influences. Mothers reported significant gaps in pain management, postpartum education, and structured follow-up, particularly after discharge, which left many feeling unprepared and overwhelmed. Experiences of childbirth ranged from empowering and respectful to distressing, with inadequate communication and inconsistent pain relief contributing to negative experiences. Informational support was fragmented, especially in relation to breastfeeding and newborn care, with limited access to dedicated services. Emotional well-being was strongly influenced by staff interactions, family support, and the absence of nursery services, with many women describing feelings of neglect, anxiety, or isolation. Systemic and cultural factors, including ward conditions, staff responsiveness, and traditional postpartum practices, further shaped women’s experiences. Conclusion: Postpartum experiences are shaped by interrelated physical, emotional, social, and cultural factors. Mothers in this study reported unmet needs in pain management, education, discharge preparation, and nursery support, which often left them feeling unprepared and vulnerable. Positive experiences of respectful care, family support, and culturally rooted practices highlight the value of compassionate and contextually sensitive approaches. Strengthening postnatal services through tailored support, follow-up, and integration of cultural practices with evidence-based care is essential to improve maternal recovery and well-being.