Use of the partogram by midwives in Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo: Current situation, associated factors and prospects for capacity building

Abstract

Objective: To assess the knowledge, practices and difficulties associated with the use of the partogram among midwives in Mbandaka, with a view to guiding capacity-building strategies.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 118 midwives practicing in two referral health centres (CSRs) in Mbandaka. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using Pearson’s chi-square tests (α=0.05) and logistic regression to identify factors associated with good knowledge and optimal use of the partogram.

Results: The majority of respondents (59.3%) were male. The use of the partogram for all deliveries was high (86.4%). However, only 37.3% of midwives correctly defined the partogram as a tool for monitoring labour, and 54.2% identified its main role as monitoring the progression of labour, compared with 14.4% for the early detection of complications. The main difficulties encountered were a lack of training (33.9%) and a lack of equipment (31.4%). Significant associations were observed between educational level and the method of completing the partogram (χ² = 15.859, p=0.045) as well as with the difficulties encountered (χ² = 16.576, p=0.035). Professional experience was significantly associated with the method of completion (χ² = 44.697, p=0.006). Almost all respondents (98.3%) suggested continuing professional development as the main measure for improvement.

Conclusion: Although the reported use of the partogram is high, significant gaps remain in understanding its full function, particularly the detection of complications. Capacity-building strategies must be tailored to educational level and professional experience, with an emphasis on ongoing practical training and the availability of equipment.

Keywords: Partogram, Midwife, Capacity building, Childbirth, Mbandaka, DRC.

Received Date: February 22, 2026

Accepted Date: March 14, 2026

Published Date: April 02, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/656