Knowledge and Practices of Midwives Regarding the Application of Postnatal Care Standards at Mama Balako Referral Health Center in Mbandaka (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Abstract
Introduction
Postnatal care (PNC) is a strategic intervention for reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, but its application in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) often remains inadequate. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of midwives at the Mama Balako Referral Health Center (CSR) in Mbandaka regarding the application of PNC standards, and to identify factors associated with the quality of these services.
Methods
A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from January to September 2025 among 57 healthcare providers (39 midwives, 13 nurses, 5 physicians) at Mama Balako CSR. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive analysis focused on frequencies and percentages. Associations were tested using Pearson's chi-square test (p < 0.05) and logistic regression.
Results
The majority of participants were young (49.1% aged 20–29 years), female, had a university education (73.7%), but had limited professional experience (82.5% had less than 5 years of service). Only 7.0% of providers knew the specific PNC standards, and 98.2% had never received continuing education. No standardized assessment tools were used (100%), and no specific screening examinations were performed. Physical examination of the mother was performed by 47.4% of respondents, and examination of the newborn by 29.8%. Promotion of breastfeeding (84.2%) and family planning follow-up (63.2%) were the best-integrated practices. Chi-square testing showed a significant association between education level and knowledge of standards (χ² = 14.308; df = 2; p < 0.05). Logistic regression identified education level, continuing education, and professional category as the main determinants of knowledge of standards.
Discussion
The results reveal a paradox between a high level of education and an almost total lack of knowledge of PNC standards, explained by the near-absolute absence of continuing education and standardized tools. These observations confirm earlier work conducted in the DRC and sub-Saharan Africa, which highlights that initial training alone is insufficient to guarantee quality clinical practice without regular refresher courses and formalized support materials.
Conclusion
The level of knowledge and practices of midwives at Mama Balako CSR regarding PNC standards is severely inadequate. Urgent capacity building through continuing education, provision of standardized tools, and the establishment of formative supervision is needed to improve the quality of postnatal care and contribute to reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in Mbandaka.
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How to cite
Ilodja Ifaso, N. (2026). Knowledge and Practices of Midwives Regarding the Application of Postnatal Care Standards at Mama Balako Referral Health Center in Mbandaka (Democratic Republic of the Congo). SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0008-knowledge-and-practices-of-midwives-regarding-the-application-of-postn