Rural Women’s Experiences in Accessing Prenatal and Postnatal Health Services: A Qualitative Study

Background: Rural women in Turkey continue to face significant challenges in accessing quality maternal healthcare despite improvements in service coverage. Persistent inequalities in healthcare quality, geographic isolation, transportation difficulties, and limited financial resources contribute to reduced prenatal and postnatal care utilization. These barriers may increase the risk of preventable maternal and neonatal complications. Hypothesis: It was hypothesized that women living in rural areas experience interrelated geographical, economic, cultural, and systemic barriers that limit access to maternal healthcare. Conversely, strong family ties, midwife involvement, and community solidarity may act as supportive factors enhancing care access. Methods: A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was employed to explore women’s lived experiences. Data were collected between February and May 2025 through semi-structured interviews with 15 pregnant or postpartum women (≤42 days). Thematic content analysis was conducted using MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2024, and descriptive statistics were analyzed in SPSS Version 28. Results: Findings confirmed multidimensional barriers including transportation problems, lack of awareness, economic hardship, and limited healthcare infrastructure. Facilitators included family support, midwife counseling, and private vehicle ownership. Participants recommended mobile health services, home visits, and educational programs. Conclusion: Structural, social, and cultural factors collectively restrict rural women’s access to maternal care. Strengthening community-based health systems, implementing mHealth initiatives, and empowering midwives through outreach programs are vital for ensuring equitable maternal healthcare.